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Description
Commelina Coelestis, also known as the Blue Spiderwort, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Commelinaceae family. It is native to South America and is widely cultivated for its stunning blue flowers. The plant is herbaceous and has a lifespan of about two to three years. It can grow up to 40 cm in height and 60 cm in width. The Blue Spiderwort has a unique characteristic where the flowers only last for a day, but the plant produces new flowers regularly making it a continuous bloomer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Commelinaceae |
| Genus | Commelina |
Appearance
The Blue Spiderwort has a beautiful blue color that grabs attention, the flowers are three-petaled and have a small yellow center. The plant foliage is green, and the leaves are elongated, pointed, and about 10 cm long. The plant has a trailing growth habit, meaning the stems grow horizontally, and the flowers bloom in clusters. The Blue Spiderwort is a perfect plant for borders, rock gardens, and hanging baskets, making it a popular choice for gardeners worldwide.
Care Guide
Like most plants, the Blue Spiderwort requires specific care to thrive. Here are some helpful tips:
- Water: The Blue Spiderwort needs to be watered regularly, and the soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: The plant needs to be fertilized every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
- Soil: The Blue Spiderwort prefers well-draining soil that is high in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Blue Spiderwort can grow in hardiness zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Blue Spiderwort is generally pest-free, but it is susceptible to spider mites and aphids. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to root rot and fungal diseases, which can be prevented by ensuring well-draining soil and proper watering practices.
Habitat
The Blue Spiderwort is native to South America and is prevalent in Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. It can thrive in various environments and can grow in both dry and moist soils. The plant prefers open areas with plenty of sunlight and can tolerate high temperatures and humidity.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Blue Spiderwort be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives enough sunlight and is kept in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I water the Blue Spiderwort?
A: The plant needs to be watered regularly, and the soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Can the Blue Spiderwort tolerate frost?
A: No, the plant cannot tolerate frost and should be protected during winter in colder areas.
Q: How long do the flowers of the Blue Spiderwort last?
A: The flowers only last for a day, but the plant produces new flowers regularly, making it a continuous bloomer.
Related Plants
- Commelina benghalensis
- Commelina communis
- Commelina diffusa
- Commelina erecta
References
- “Commelina Coelestis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282484.
- “Commelina Coelestis.” Plant Care Today, 22 Mar. 2021, plantcaretoday.com/commelina-coelestis.
- “Commelina Coelestis.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/289083/i-Commelina-coelestis-i/Details.
