Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Count the hours of direct sunlight the plant gets.
- Check if you have been using a high nitrogen fertilizer.
- Look for any pests that might be eating the flower buds.
Likely causes
Insufficient light
Most likelyHow to tell: The plant looks tall and thin with few or no flower buds. It is reaching for the light.
What to do: Move the plant to a location that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun daily. If it is in a pot, shift it to the sunniest spot in your garden.
Too much nitrogen
PossibleHow to tell: The plant is very lush and green but produces no flowers. This happens if you use a high nitrogen fertilizer.
What to do: Switch to a balanced fertilizer or one higher in phosphorus. Stop fertilizing for a few weeks to let the plant focus on blooming.
When to worry
It is normal for young plants to spend time growing roots and leaves before blooming. Worry only if the plant is mature and still shows no signs of buds by mid summer.
Stopping it coming back
Plant in full sun and use a balanced fertilizer sparingly. Consistent moisture helps the plant maintain the energy needed for constant blooming.
Not sure which one it is? Photograph your spider flower.
This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.
Questions people ask
- Do I need to deadhead the flowers?
- Yes, removing spent blooms encourages the plant to put energy into new flowers rather than seeds. It keeps the plant looking tidy too.
- How long does it take to bloom?
- Most spider flowers start blooming about 6 to 8 weeks after planting. Be patient if yours is still young.
More problems with Spider flower
Back to the Spider flower guide
This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.