Seed Packet Pink Cleome

Pink Cleome Seed Packet Vilmorin (Reference: 5232641) - Discover the exotic beauty of pink cleome, this magnificent Mexican flower nicknamed the “spider flower” for its spectacular and unique inflorescences. This Vilmorin variety captivates with its large soft pink flower heads that proudly dominate gardens from summer until the first autumn frosts.

Uses and Benefits of Pink Cleome

The pink cleome fits into many landscaping designs thanks to its impressive height and unique decorative appearance. This tall flower is perfect for structuring the background of flower beds, creating spectacular borders along pathways, or dressing up the back of romantic gardens. Its vigorous growth makes it an ideal choice for quickly filling empty spaces.

Home gardeners appreciate its ease of cultivation and generous flowering that attracts butterflies and bees, contributing to garden biodiversity. Professional landscapers use it to create original compositions in public gardens, parks and commercial green spaces. Its robust stems withstand wind well and its long flowering period guarantees a lasting decorative effect.

Botanical Characteristics and Specificities

Pink cleome (Cleome hassleriana) is distinguished by its terminal inflorescences made up of four-petalled flowers delicately tinted in soft pink. Its long protruding stamens, responsible for the nickname “spider flower”, create a striking visual effect that does not go unnoticed. The plant develops a robust stem that can reach 80 to 120 cm in height, supported by a deep taproot system.

Its palmate foliage, composed of leaves divided into 5 to 7 leaflets, remains deliberately discreet to highlight the spectacular flowering. This resilient annual plant tolerates heat and dry periods well once established. Its elongated seed pods add additional decorative interest and allow seed collection for the following year.

Sowing and Growing Techniques

Sowing pink cleome is ideally carried out in March-April under cover, in trays or seed boxes filled with quality seed compost. The relatively fine seeds should be sown at shallow depth (2-3 mm) and kept at a temperature of 18-20°C to optimise germination. Germination can be slow (2 to 3 weeks), requiring patience and maintaining constant moisture without excess.

At the 4-5 true leaf stage, carry out individual pricking out into 8-10 cm pots under a temperate shelter. This step allows the seedlings to develop a robust root system before final planting. Planting out in the garden takes place in May, after the last frosts, spacing the plants 40-50 cm apart to allow their full development. Prefer a sunny position and well-drained soil, even poor.

Expert Tips and Successful Combinations

To maximise the decorative effect of pink cleome, combine it cleverly with other varieties of different heights. In the background, it pairs perfectly with cosmos, rudbeckias or sunflowers to create dynamic compositions. In the foreground, favour shorter annuals such as celosias, dwarf zinnias or impatiens which will highlight its slender stature.

An expert tip is to stagger sowings over 2-3 weeks to extend the flowering period and achieve a constant renewal effect. For bouquets, cut the stems early in the morning and plunge them immediately into cold water. Be aware of spontaneous seedlings the following year: this plant can self-seed naturally in favourable conditions, sometimes creating pleasant surprises in the garden.

Technical Specifications