Contents
Description
Commelina Eckloniana, commonly known as Scurvy Weed, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Commelinaceae family. It is native to South Africa and can be found growing in grasslands, savannas, and disturbed areas. The plant’s stem is succulent and can grow up to 60cm tall. It has a fibrous root system and produces blue flowers that bloom in the summer. The plant’s leaves are alternate and ovate or lanceolate in shape, with a length of 5-20cm and width of 1-5cm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Commelinaceae |
| Genus | Commelina |
Appearance
Commelina Eckloniana has a unique appearance with its blue flowers and succulent stems. The plant’s leaves are a bright green color and have a lanceolate or ovate shape. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stem and have a length of 5-20cm and width of 1-5cm. The flowers are blue and have three petals that are fused at the base. They bloom in the summer and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Commelina Eckloniana is easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. A balanced fertilizer can be applied once every six months.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 5.5-7.5 is ideal.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun exposure.
- Hardiness Zones: Commelina Eckloniana is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Commelina Eckloniana is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be prone to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
Commelina Eckloniana is native to South Africa and can be found growing in grasslands, savannas, and disturbed areas. It prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun exposure. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Commelina Eckloniana a perennial plant?
A: Yes, Commelina Eckloniana is a perennial herbaceous plant.
Q: What is the ideal pH range for Commelina Eckloniana?
A: The ideal pH range for the plant is 5.5-7.5.
Q: Is Commelina Eckloniana prone to any diseases?
A: The plant is relatively disease-resistant but may be prone to root rot if overwatered.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Commelina Eckloniana?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Related Plants
- Commelina benghalensis
- Commelina coelestis
- Commelina communis
- Commelina diffusa
- Commelina erecta
References
- Commelina Eckloniana. Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286279&isprofile=0&basic=commelina%20eckloniana
- Commelina Eckloniana. PlantZAfrica. Retrieved from http://pza.sanbi.org/commelina-eckloniana
- Commelina Eckloniana. PlantNet. Retrieved from http://www.plantnet.org.za/Plant.aspx?PlantID=140&Genus=Commelina&Species=eckloniana
