Cleome serrulata (Rocky Mountain Beeplant)

Native to the western and prairie regions of North America, Cleome serrulata (Rocky Mountain Beeplant) is a fast-growing annual plant boasting showy elongated racemes of pink flowers with long purplish stamens that radiate from each flower and protrude out. The nectar-filled blossoms attract a diverse array of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. They are mostly avoided by livestock. Blooming over a reasonably long period, from late spring until fall, depending on location and elevation, the flowers rise atop branched stems lined with palmately compound leaves. They give way to slender seed capsules, up to 4 in. long (10 cm), that dangle from elongated stalks. The flowers and seed pods can appear on the stem at the same time, which adds to the charm and interest of the plant. Rocky Mountain Beeplant is a sight to behold when growing en masse in its natural environment. It also adds color and dimension to formally landscaped gardens. Cleome serrulata is an important cultural plant for many Southwestern Indian tribes. The young shoots and leaves are good sources of vitamin A and calcium. The Navajo still use the plant as a source of greenish-yellow dye for their lovely wool rugs and blankets. Many pueblo tribes use a concentrated form of dye, made from boiling the plant into a thick black resin, to paint designs on pottery or for decorating their baskets.

• Grows up to 2-5 ft. high (60-150 cm) and up to 12-18 in. wide (30-45 cm). Will happily self-seed, leaving behind thousands of seeds that will hopefully germinate the following spring and summer.
• Performs best in full sun or light shade in average, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils. Drought tolerant once established.
• Rocky Mountain Beeplant is an ideal addition to cottage gardens, butterfly gardens, and naturalized areas.
• May be grown from seeds in spring or fall.
• Generally pest or disease free
• Fairly low maintenance, add this charming and graceful plant to the landscape, and you will be rewarded with abundant happy butterflies, hummingbirds and birds. Doves and other small birds relish the seeds.
• Promptly remove the seed pods if self-seeding is not desired.
• Native to North America.