TopTropicals Plant Catalog

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Commelina is a genus of monocot, generally called "dayflowers" due to the short lives of their flowers.

The genus Commelina was named for members of an 18th century Dutch family. The two upper petals of the flower are said to represent the two brothers who were famous botanists. The lower, almost unnoticeable petal, represents a third who died young, before accomplishing anything in botany.

The leaves and stems of Commelina erecta can be eaten as a potherb. The mucilaginous sap is used to ease skin irritations.

Water regularly; do not over water. Requires consistently moist soil; do not let dry out between watering.

Similar Species: Asiatic Dayflower (C. communis) is an introduced annual that is similar in apparence but is found in moist areas, often along ditches, and is reclining.

Virginia Dayflower or Woods Dayflower (C. virginiana) is much taller. It has three blue petals with one slightly smaller than the others. The leaves are wide. It is found in moist to wet shaded areas.