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Description
Commelina Virginica, commonly known as Virginia dayflower, is a plant species that belongs to the Commelinaceae family. This perennial herbaceous plant is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, along streams, and in other moist habitats. It features blue flowers that bloom from June to October and can grow up to 60 centimeters tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Commelinaceae |
| Genus | Commelina |
Appearance
Commelina Virginica has lance-shaped leaves that are smooth, hairless, and up to 15 centimeters long. The flowers are small and blue, with three petals and a yellow center. They bloom for one day and are replaced by new flowers the next day. The plant can grow up to 60 centimeters tall and 30 centimeters wide.
Care Guide
Virginia dayflower requires moist soil and partial shade to grow. It is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 5 to 9. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant Virginia dayflower in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade, but it can tolerate full sun if the soil is kept moist.
- Hardiness Zones: Commelina Virginica is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Virginia dayflower is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and leaf spot. Here are some tips for preventing and treating these issues:
- Spider Mites: Spray the plant with a stream of water to remove spider mites. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
- Aphids: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat an aphid infestation.
- Leaf Spot: Remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf spot.
Habitat
Commelina Virginica is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, along streams, and in other moist habitats. It is commonly found in the eastern United States, from Florida to Maine and west to Texas and North Dakota.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Virginia dayflower invasive?
A: No, Virginia dayflower is not considered invasive. It is a native plant that is beneficial to local ecosystems.
Q: Can Virginia dayflower be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Virginia dayflower can be grown in containers as long as the soil is kept moist and the plant receives partial shade.
Q: Are there any other species of Commelina?
A: Yes, there are over 200 species of Commelina, including Commelina diffusa and Commelina erecta.
Q: How long does the flowering season last?
A: The flowering season for Virginia dayflower lasts from June to October.
Related Plants
- Commelina diffusa
- Commelina erecta
- Commelina communis
References
- “Commelina Virginica.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280267.
- “Commelina Virginica.” USDA Plants Database, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=COVI2.
- “Virginia Dayflower.” Illinois Wildflowers, www.illinoiswildflowers.info/wetland/plants/virginia_dayflower.htm.
