Bird Spiderflower: A Delicate Annual for Naturalized Gardens
Meet the bird spiderflower (Cleome ornithopodioides), a charming little annual that’s been quietly making itself at home in parts of the eastern United States. While it may not be the showiest member of the spiderflower family, this delicate forb has its own understated appeal for gardeners who appreciate subtle beauty in their landscapes.
What Is Bird Spiderflower?
Bird spiderflower is an annual forb, meaning it’s a soft-stemmed herbaceous plant that completes its entire life cycle in one growing season. Unlike its woody cousins, this plant puts all its energy into producing flowers and seeds before the first frost takes it down. As a member of the Cleome family, it shares the characteristic spider-like appearance of its flowers, though on a much more modest scale than its flashier relatives.
Native Status and Distribution
Here’s where things get interesting: bird spiderflower isn’t actually native to North America. This little wanderer is a non-native species that has successfully established itself in the wild, reproducing on its own without human intervention. Currently, you can find naturalized populations in Kentucky, Maryland, and Pennsylvania, where it has quietly integrated into local ecosystems.
Should You Plant Bird Spiderflower?
The decision to plant bird spiderflower comes down to your gardening philosophy and goals. Since it’s not considered invasive or problematic, there’s no urgent reason to avoid it. However, as a non-native species, it won’t provide the same ecological benefits as plants that co-evolved with local wildlife.
Pros:
- Low-maintenance annual that self-seeds
- Fills gaps in naturalized garden areas
- Delicate flowers add subtle texture to plantings
- Adapts well to various growing conditions
Cons:
- Limited ecological value compared to native alternatives
- Sparse information available about cultivation
- May not provide significant pollinator benefits
Native Alternatives to Consider
If you’re drawn to the idea of a delicate annual with interesting flowers, consider these native alternatives that offer similar charm with greater ecological benefits:
- Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) – beloved by bees and butterflies
- Purple poppy mallow (Callirhoe involucrata) – low-growing with showy purple flowers
- Wild columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) – delicate and perfect for shade gardens
Growing Bird Spiderflower
If you decide to give bird spiderflower a try, you’ll find it’s refreshingly undemanding. Based on its naturalized success and family characteristics, this annual likely prefers full sun and well-drained soils. Like most members of the Cleome family, it probably tolerates poor soils and drought conditions once established.
Basic Growing Tips:
- Plant in full sun locations
- Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot
- Direct sow seeds in spring after frost danger passes
- Water regularly until established, then reduce frequency
- Allow some plants to go to seed for natural reseeding
Garden Design Ideas
Bird spiderflower works best in informal, naturalized settings where its subtle beauty can shine without competing with showier plants. Consider using it in:
- Wildflower meadows or prairie-style plantings
- Cottage garden borders as a filler plant
- Transition areas between cultivated and wild spaces
- Rocky or poor-soil areas where few other plants thrive
The Bottom Line
Bird spiderflower is neither a garden superstar nor a problematic weed—it’s somewhere comfortably in between. If you’re creating a low-maintenance, naturalized garden and don’t mind non-native plants, it could be a pleasant addition. However, if you’re focused on supporting native ecosystems and local wildlife, you’ll likely find better options among our native flora. Whatever you choose, happy gardening!
