Commelinales

Description

Commelinales is an order of monocot flowering plants that includes approximately 800 species. These plants are unique in that their flowers only last for a day, which is why they are often referred to as “dayflowers.” Commelinales are commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, but some species can also be found in temperate regions.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Liliopsida
Order	Commelinales
Family	Commelinaceae
Genus	Commelina, Tradescantia, and more

Appearance

Commelinales plants have a unique appearance with their long, narrow leaves that grow alternately on the stem. The flowers are small and have three petals that are typically blue, but can be pink or purple. The flowers only last for a day and are replaced by new ones the following day. Some species of Commelinales have a trailing habit and are often grown as ground covers.

Care Guide

To care for Commelinales plants, it is important to provide them with adequate water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones. These plants prefer well-draining soil that is kept consistently moist. They also require regular fertilization during the growing season to promote healthy growth. Commelinales plants prefer partial shade to full sun and are hardy in USDA hardiness zones 8-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Common pests that can affect Commelinales plants include spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Diseases that can affect these plants include leaf spot and root rot, which can be prevented by providing adequate air circulation and not overwatering.

Habitat

Commelinales plants are commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, but some species can also be found in temperate regions. They prefer moist soil and can often be found growing along streams, rivers, and in wetlands.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Commelinales plants be grown indoors?

A: Yes, some species of Commelinales can be grown indoors if provided with adequate light and humidity.

Q: Are Commelinales plants toxic to pets?

A: Some species of Commelinales can be toxic to pets if ingested. It is important to keep these plants out of reach of pets.

Q: Can Commelinales plants be propagated from cuttings?

A: Yes, many species of Commelinales can be propagated from stem cuttings.

Q: What is the lifespan of Commelinales plants?

A: The lifespan of Commelinales plants varies depending on the species, but most will live for several years if provided with proper care.

Related Plants

• Asparagus
• Spiderwort
• Dayflower
• Tradescantia
• Zebrina

References

• “Commelinales.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 04 Feb. 2022.
• “Commelinales.” Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, n.d. Web. 04 Feb. 2022.
• Smith, James B. “Commelinales.” The Plant List. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 04 Feb. 2022.