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Description
Commelina Forskaolii, commonly known as Forskaol’s Dayflower, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Commelinaceae. It is native to eastern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. The plant has vibrant blue flowers that bloom in the summer and fall. It is a popular ornamental plant because of its attractive flowers and foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Commelinaceae |
| Genus | Commelina |
Appearance
Commelina Forskaolii has a clumping growth habit and can grow up to 1-2 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. The plant has lance-shaped leaves that are bright green in color and can grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers are bright blue, three-petaled, and have a distinctive yellow center. The plant blooms in the summer and fall and attracts bees and butterflies. The flowers last for a day and are replaced by new blooms the next day.
Care Guide
Commelina Forskaolii is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for taking care of the plant:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so water it regularly, especially during hot and dry periods.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Commelina Forskaolii is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck sap from the plant and cause damage. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause discoloration and damage to the leaves. They can be controlled with an insecticidal soap or by spraying the plant with water.
- Root rot: This fungal disease can be caused by overwatering or poor drainage. It can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining and that the plant is not overwatered.
Habitat
Commelina Forskaolii is native to eastern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, and rocky areas. The plant prefers moist soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Commelina Forskaolii toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence that Commelina Forskaolii is toxic to pets, but it is always a good idea to keep plants out of reach of pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
Q: How often should I water Commelina Forskaolii?
A: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry periods. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Q: How tall does Commelina Forskaolii grow?
A: Commelina Forskaolii can grow up to 1-2 feet tall.
Q: How do I propagate Commelina Forskaolii?
A: Commelina Forskaolii can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. Simply dig up the plant and separate the clumps into smaller sections. Replant the sections in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Commelina cyanea
- Commelina coelestis
- Commelina communis
- Commelina diffusa
References
- “Commelina Forskaolii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c634
- “Commelina Forskaolii.” PlantZAfrica. https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/commforsk.htm
- “Commelina Forskaolii.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/10952/commelina-forskaolii/details
