Asiatic dayflower
commelina communis
Also known as: ["Dayflower","Chinese dayflower"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant known for its striking blue flowers that open in the morning and fade by evening.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Commelinales |
| Family: | Commelinaceae |
| Genus: | Commelina |
| Botanical Name: | Commelina communis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few weeks during active growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near an east or west-facing window; outdoors, provide dappled shade in peak afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid letting the plant sit in water, and adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C). Tolerates mild fluctuations but avoids extremes.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; use a fan for gentle air circulation in heat; monitor room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light with consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Optional, but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or snip off dead/overgrown parts with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or leggy growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the main growing season.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water deeply to encourage root growth, and always allow excess water to drain away. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and reduce fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Increase frequency during active growth in spring and summer; reduce in fall and winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure proper aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf scorch or bud drop in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, protect from drafts, and ensure soil is not overly wet.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Commelina communis. The calcium oxalate crystals can cause irritation, but severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Commelina communis can lead to mild gastrointestinal distress due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals. The effects are typically not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCommelina communis contains small amounts of calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and discomfort upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally mild and localized to the gastrointestinal tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Asiatic dayflower toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How long do the flowers of Commelina communis last?
A: The flowers typically last only one day, opening in the morning and fading by evening.
Q: Does this plant require special care?
A: It is easy to care for and thrives in partial shade with moderate watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Commelinaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days |
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