Overview
Commelina communis L., commonly known as Asiatic dayflower, is a weedy herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Commelinaceae. It is native to Africa, Asia, and Australia, and has become naturalized in North America, Europe, and other parts of the world.
Common Names
Asiatic dayflower is known by a variety of names such as Chinese forget-me-not, blue spiderwort, and tropical spiderwort. The name "dayflower" is due to the fact that the flowers of this plant last only for one day.
Appearance
Asiatic dayflower is an annual plant that grows up to 50 cm tall. It has fleshy stems and long, narrow leaves that are bright green in color, with a pointed tip. The leaves are alternately arranged on the stem and can grow up to 10 cm long. The flowers are small, blue, and have three petals, with the lower petal usually smaller than the other two. The flowers bloom in the summer and fall.
Uses
Although Asiatic dayflower is generally considered a weed, it does have some medicinal uses. In traditional Chinese medicine, the entire plant is used to treat various ailments, including fever, urinary tract infections, and inflammation. Additionally, the plant has been found to have antioxidant, antibacterial, and antiviral properties.
Asiatic dayflower is also sometimes grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Light Requirements
The plant Commelina communis L. generally thrives well under bright and indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some shade but grows best in full sun exposure. Thus, it is recommended to provide at least 6 hours of direct or indirect sunlight daily to help the plant maintain its vibrant growth.
Temperature Requirements
The temperature requirements for Commelina communis L. may vary depending on your region and gardening practices. Generally, this plant prefers moderate to warm temperate conditions, thriving best at a temperature range of 18-28 degrees Celsius. However, it is worth noting that the plant can tolerate some cold, but will not survive frost or extended periods of freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Commelina communis L. thrives in well-drained, fertile, and moderately moist soil. It is recommended to plant the species in a soil mix composed of equal parts garden soil, leaf mould, and sand. The plant requires slightly acidic to neutral soil conditions, with a pH range of 5.5 -7.0. Furthermore, it is worth noting that Commelina communis L. is tolerant of heavy soil and drought, but for the best results, ensure that your plant soil is adequately watered with proper drainage.
Cultivation of Commelina communis L.
Commelina communis L. is an annual plant that typically grows in moist, shaded areas. It prefers well-drained soils with a slightly acidic pH of 5.0 to 6.5. The plant can be propagated via seeds, which should be sown in early spring after the last frost. The seeds should be spaced 1 to 2 inches apart and covered with a thin layer of soil. The plant will germinate within 7 to 14 days.
Watering Needs of Commelina communis L.
The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Over-watering may lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. Watering should be done early in the morning or late in the evening, and the foliage should be kept dry to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. During the dry season, the plant may require more frequent watering to prevent wilting.
Fertilization of Commelina communis L.
The plant requires moderate fertilization to promote growth and flowering. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied once a month during the growing season. Alternatively, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied at the beginning of the growing season. Organic fertilizers such as compost or manure can also be used to provide nutrients to the plant.
Pruning of Commelina communis L.
The plant does not require extensive pruning. However, dead or damaged foliage should be removed to prevent the spread of fungal diseases. Additionally, the plant may benefit from periodic pinching to promote bushier growth and more abundant flowering. Pinching involves removing the terminal shoot of the plant to encourage the growth of lateral shoots.
Propagation of Commelina communis L.
Commelina communis L., commonly known as Asiatic dayflower, is a spreading herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Commelinaceae. The plant is native to Asia, but it is now widespread in other parts of the world, including Europe and North America.
Types of Propagation
Propagation of Commelina communis can be done through various methods, including:
- Seed Propagation: This is the most popular method of propagation for Commelina communis. The seeds can be collected from mature plants and sown in a suitable bed. Seedlings usually emerge within two weeks, and they can be transplanted to a permanent location once they have developed four to five true leaves.
- Tuber Division: This propagation method involves dividing the tubers of mature plants into smaller sections, each containing a growing point. The sections are then planted individually in pots or a seedbed. The new plants will develop roots and new shoots from the growing points.
- Stem Cuttings: Propagation by stem cuttings is best suited for the propagation of cultivars. The cuttings should be taken from the new, green stems of the parent plant. The cuttings should be about 10cm long, and the lower leaves should be removed. The cuttings can then be planted in a suitable substrate and kept moist until they develop roots and new leaves.
Propagation Time
The best time to propagate Commelina communis is in the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. Propagation can be done at other times of the year, but it may take longer for the new plant to establish itself.
Care After Propagation
After propagation, the new plants should be kept in a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. They should be watered regularly to ensure that they do not dry out. The plants should also be protected from direct sunlight and strong winds until they are fully established.
Disease and Pest Management for Commelina communis L.
Commelina communis L., commonly known as Asiatic dayflower, is a herbaceous flowering plant that belongs to the Commelinaceae family. Like any other plant species, Asiatic dayflowers can be susceptible to various diseases and pest insects. The following are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect Commelina communis L., along with suggestions on how to manage them.
Diseases
Root Rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to decay. Symptoms include yellowing of leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering the plant, ensuring that the soil is well-drained. You can also apply fungicide to the soil to control the pathogens.
Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant, creating a powdery coating on the surfaces. Infected leaves may turn yellow and drop off. To manage powdery mildew, ensure proper ventilation, and avoid overcrowding the plants. In case of severe infection, apply fungicide to control the spread.
Gray Mold: This is a fungal disease that affects the plant's delicate tissues, causing them to rot. Symptoms include wilting leaves, dark spots on leaves, and mold growth on leaves, stem, and flowers. To manage gray mold, remove infected plant parts and avoid wetting the foliage during irrigation. Ensure proper air circulation and apply fungicide to control the spread.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to curl or turn yellow. They may also secrete honeydew, which attracts fungi, causing black sooty mold. To manage aphids, prune infested parts, and use insecticidal soaps or neem oil to control their numbers.
Cutworms: Cutworms are larvae of several species of moth that can be found on the soil surface or in leaf litter. They feed on young seedlings, cutting them at the base, causing wilting and dieback. To manage cutworms, use collars around the base of seedlings to prevent them from getting destroyed. Chemical control such as applying Bacillus thuringiensis can be effective.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellow stippling on leaves. Severe infestations lead to leaf defoliation and stunted growth. To manage spider mites, increase humidity by misting the foliage or increase watering. Use insecticidal soaps or neem oil to control their numbers.
By following the above management strategies, you can successfully protect your Commelina communis L. plants from diseases and pests.
