Cleome hassleriana, commonly known as spider flower, is a beautiful and popular plant in gardens and landscapes. It is known for its showy flowers and unique foliage. However, one concern that many gardeners have is whether or not Cleome hassleriana is invasive.
In order to determine if a plant is invasive, we need to consider its behavior and ability to spread in natural areas. While Cleome hassleriana does self-seed prolifically and can spread in the garden, it is generally not considered invasive. Invasive plants are those that can quickly and aggressively take over natural areas, outcompeting native plants and disrupting ecosystems.
One reason why Cleome hassleriana is not typically considered invasive is because it rarely persists in undisturbed areas. It tends to thrive in disturbed or cultivated areas, such as gardens and landscapes, but does not typically establish itself in natural habitats. This is an important distinction, as it means that the plant is not likely to cause significant ecological harm.
That being said, if you want to limit the self-seeding and spreading of Cleome hassleriana in your garden, there are some steps you can take. Removing the seedpods as they develop can help prevent the plant from dispersing its seeds and producing new plants. This can be done by simply pinching off the seedpods or using pruners to remove them.
Another method to limit the spread of Cleome hassleriana is to apply a thick layer of mulch over the area where the plants are growing. This can help smother any seeds that may have fallen to the ground and prevent them from germinating. Additionally, the mulch will help suppress weeds and conserve moisture in the soil.
In my personal experience, I have found Cleome hassleriana to be a relatively well-behaved plant in my garden. While it does self-seed, I have not found it to be overly aggressive or difficult to control. I simply remove the seedpods before they have a chance to mature and spread. By doing so, I have been able to enjoy the beautiful flowers of Cleome hassleriana without worrying about it becoming invasive.
Cleome hassleriana is generally not considered invasive, as it rarely persists in undisturbed areas. While it does self-seed and can spread in the garden, it is not typically a threat to natural habitats. If you want to limit the self-seeding and spreading of Cleome hassleriana in your garden, you can remove the seedpods or apply mulch to the area. Cleome hassleriana is a beautiful and valuable addition to the garden when properly managed.
