Description

• Cleome houtteana, commonly known as spider flower or African spider flower, is an annual flowering plant in the cleome family (Cleomaceae). It has upright, branching stems and palmately arranged leaves, usually with five to seven leaflets. Its showy flowers have long, projecting stamens and may be pink, purple, or white. The flowers are followed by elongated seed capsules. Range

• The plant is native to South America, particularly Brazil and neighbouring regions, and is widely cultivated as an ornamental in warm climates. It may escape cultivation and become established in disturbed habitats. It is cultivated in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, and the surrounding area.

Habitat

• It grows best in sunny locations with well-drained soil, including gardens, roadsides, vacant lots, and other disturbed areas. It tolerates heat and can grow in relatively dry conditions once established.