Cleome has a vase life of five days. They need to be treated in a hydrating solution before making bouquets; otherwise, they wilt terribly. And, yes, the kids all complained about the smell, and the prickers, and the sticky stems. But...........

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Wedding bouquets July 2005.

Trish,
I'll be the first to admit that cleome looks great in your bouquets, but I just couldn't take the smell, and either could a florist that came out to look at my flowers, so I decided not to grow it this year.
hvander,
I was growing it just for the fact it's height and colors drew attention to my field as people drove by, and planted at the front of a row, made a pretty good wind break. I also have to admit that the smell does discipate a little after cutting, but not completely. I have grown the white, and the mixed pinks and they are all nice, except the smell. Also very easy to grow. Given the fact it's an extraordinary looking flower, you'll probably just have to give it a try yourself.
Cheryl