Origin
Commelina communis, commonly known as Asiatic dayflower, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the dayflower family. It is native to Asia and can be found in various regions including Japan, China, Korea, and parts of Southeast Asia.
Common Names
Aside from Asiatic dayflower, Commelina communis is also known by other common names such as commelina, tropical spiderwort, and blue spiderwort.
Uses
Commelina communis has been used traditionally in Chinese medicine for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and diuretic properties. The plant contains compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and steroids, which have been found to have therapeutic effects on various ailments.
In addition to its medicinal uses, Commelina communis is also used as a food source, particularly in Japan. The young shoots and leaves of the plant are consumed as a vegetable and are said to have a slightly bitter taste.
General Appearance
Commelina communis is a spreading plant that can grow up to 60 centimeters in height. It has long, narrow leaves that are arranged alternately along the stem. The flowers are small, three-petaled and come in shades of blue or purple, with a yellow center. The plant blooms throughout the summer months and the flowers only last for a day, hence the name 'dayflower'.
One of the distinctive features of Commelina communis is that it has two types of flowers - the showy flowers that are easily noticeable, and the smaller, inconspicuous flowers that produce seeds. The plant also reproduces asexually through its rhizomes that can spread rapidly and form dense mats of vegetation.
Light Requirements
The plant Commelina communis requires full sunlight or partial shade to grow and thrive. It can tolerate shady conditions; however, prolonged exposure to full sunlight is necessary for better growth and flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature for the growth of Commelina communis is between 20°C to 30°C. It can tolerate temperatures up to 35°C but cannot survive heavy frost or freezing temperatures. In colder regions, this plant can be grown as an annual.
Soil Requirements
Commelina communis prefers moist and well-drained soil. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including loamy, sandy, or clay soils. The soil should be rich in organic matter and slightly acidic (pH between 5.5 to 6.5). The plant can tolerate soil salinity but cannot grow in waterlogged or poorly-drained soil.
Cultivation Methods
Commelina communis can be grown in a wide range of soil types but thrives well in well-drained, loamy soils. It is best grown in areas with full sunlight exposure though it can also tolerate partially shaded areas. The plant can be propagated through seed or division of the rhizomes. Sow the seeds directly on the soil surface and cover with a thin layer of soil. Dividing the plant should be done during the spring season when the plant is actively growing.
Watering Needs
Commelina communis requires moderate watering, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot and the plant's death. The plant can tolerate short periods of drought but will perform better with regular watering.
Fertilization
It is essential to fertilize Commelina communis to ensure they grow healthy and vigorous. Apply a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks, especially during the growing season. A liquid fertilizer, such as a seaweed extract, is ideal as it is quickly absorbed by the plant.
Pruning
Commelina communis requires minimal pruning. Deadheading the flowers will help improve the plant's appearance and encourage the growth of new buds. Remove any yellow or damaged leaves as they can attract pests and diseases. Additionally, cut back any excessive growth to keep the plant tidy.
Propagation of Commelina communis
Commelina communis commonly known as Asiatic dayflower is a fast-growing perennial plant. It is a very easy plant to propagate as it can be propagated using a number of methods including seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division of the plants.
Seed propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagating Commelina communis is through the use of seeds. The seeds can be obtained from mature plants and should be sown in well-drained soil during the spring or early summer. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
The seeds will germinate within 10 to 14 days, and once the seedlings have grown to about 4 inches in height, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden. It is important to note that the plant can also self-seed in the garden.
Stem cuttings
Another way to propagate Commelina communis is through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from mature plants during the spring or summer months and should be approximately 4 to 6 inches in length.
The cuttings should be planted in well-drained soil and kept moist until they have developed roots. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged as this can cause the cuttings to rot. Once the cuttings have developed roots, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Division
Commelina communis can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections and replanting them in well-drained soil. This method is typically used for mature plants that have become overcrowded or need to be rejuvenated.
To divide the plant, it should be carefully uprooted and the root system separated into smaller sections. Each section should have a portion of both the roots and the stems. The sections can then be replanted in well-drained soil and kept moist until they have established themselves in their new location.
Disease and Pest Management of Commelina communis
Commelina communis, also known as Asiatic dayflower, is a commonly found weed that can grow in various conditions. Although it is adaptable and easy to grow, it is still susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can damage its growth and appearance.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Commelina communis is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant, causing them to turn yellow and wilt. To manage this disease, it is essential to remove any infected plant parts and to water the plant at the base to prevent water from accumulating on the leaves. Applying a fungicide can also help prevent and control powdery mildew.
Another disease that can affect Commelina communis is rust, which appears as orange or yellow spots on the leaves and stems. This fungal disease can cause leaves to drop prematurely and stunt the growth of the plant. To manage rust, it is important to remove and dispose of any infected plant parts and to water the plant at the base. Applying a fungicide can also help prevent and control rust.
Common Pests
Commelina communis can also be affected by various pests that can cause damage to the plant. One of the most common pests is the aphid, which feeds on the sap of the plant and can cause distorted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage aphids, it is important to use natural predators such as ladybugs or to spray the plant with a mixture of soap and water.
Another pest that can damage Commelina communis is the spider mite. These tiny pests can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves by feeding on the sap of the plant. To manage spider mites, it is important to remove any infected plant parts and to spray the plant with a mixture of soap and water or a pesticide specifically formulated for spider mites.
Conclusion
Managing diseases and pests is essential for the healthy growth of Commelina communis. By removing infected plant parts, watering the plant at the base, and using natural or chemical control options, it is possible to prevent and control diseases and pests that can damage the plant.
