African Spider Flower (Cleome gynandra)

Family: Capparidaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Cleome gynandra is a ANNUAL growing to 1.3 m (4ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. It is in leaf from May to October, in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Open areas and uncultivated land to an elevation of 300 metres in Nepal. (Zone 8)