Commelina Dianthifolia

Description

Commelina Dianthifolia, commonly known as the Fuzzy Dayflower, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Commelinaceae family. Originating from Mexico, this plant has a unique characteristic of blooming during the day and closing its flowers at night, which gives it its name. It grows up to 1-2 feet in height and has a spread of 1-2 feet. The plant produces clusters of small blue flowers with three petals, which are surrounded by hairy bracts. It has a hairy stem, and its leaves are oval-shaped and hairy as well.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Fuzzy Dayflower has a unique appearance with its blue flowers surrounded by hairy bracts. The plant has a hairy stem and leaves that are oval-shaped and hairy as well. It grows up to 1-2 feet in height and has a spread of 1-2 feet. The plant is often used in gardens and landscapes as a ground cover or border plant.

Care Guide

The Fuzzy Dayflower is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

• Water: The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
• Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Fuzzy Dayflower is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and leaf spot. To prevent these pests and diseases, make sure to provide the plant with adequate sunlight, water, and air circulation. If necessary, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or a fungicide.

Habitat

The Fuzzy Dayflower is native to Mexico but is now widely grown in gardens and landscapes in other parts of the world. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade. It can be grown as a ground cover or border plant and is often used in rock gardens or container gardens.

Question and Answer

• Q: Is the Fuzzy Dayflower toxic to pets?
  A: The plant is not toxic to pets but can cause mild stomach upset if ingested in large quantities.
• Q: Can the Fuzzy Dayflower tolerate frost?
  A: No, the plant is not frost tolerant and should be protected during the winter months.
• Q: Can the Fuzzy Dayflower be grown indoors?
  A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny location with adequate humidity.
• Q: Can the Fuzzy Dayflower be propagated from cuttings?
  A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.

Related Plants

• Commelina Coelestis
• Commelina Diffusa
• Commelina Erecta
• Commelina Tuberosa

References

• “Commelina Dianthifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c759.
• “Commelina Dianthifolia.” Plant Care Today, 19 July 2021, plantcaretoday.com/commelina-dianthifolia.
• “Fuzzy Dayflower.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, 5 Sept. 2019, gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/fuzzy-dayflower.html.