Commelina cyanea
Commelina cyanea · Commelinaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant commelina cyanea: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Blue Tradescantia, Dayflower
- Foliage
- Deciduous to semi-evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring and summer (May to September)
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm tall, spreading habit
- Growth
- Moderate to fast
- Hardiness
- Frost-tender (minimum 5 to 10 °C)
- Origin
- Eastern Australia
- Soil type
- Well-draining, light, slightly acidic to neutral
Care
Watering
Water regularly without letting the soil become waterlogged. The substrate should dry out slightly between waterings. In winter, reduce watering. Avoid hard water and prefer non-chlorinated water.
Light and exposure
Place the plant in bright, indirect light. It appreciates a bright location but tolerates light partial shade. Too much shade slows flowering and weakens the habit. A north or east-facing position is ideal.
Soil and potting mix
Use a rich, well-draining and porous substrate. A mix of horticultural potting soil, peat or coco and perlite works perfectly. Ensure good root aeration.
Fertilizer and nutrition
Apply a balanced diluted fertilizer every 15 days during the growing season (spring-summer). Stop feeding in autumn-winter. Moderate feeding is sufficient; excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch the stems regularly to encourage branching and a compact habit. Remove faded flowers to extend blooming. In late winter, clean up bare or diseased stems.
Diseases and pests
Watch for spider mites and whiteflies, especially indoors. Excess moisture promotes root rot and mold. Ensure good air circulation and avoid wetting the foliage.
Did you know?
Commelina cyanea is one of the species in the Commelina genus, whose name honors the Commelin brothers, Dutch botanists from the 17th century. The three-petaled flower historically symbolizes the ephemeral nature of life: each flower opens for only one day, hence the English name 'Dayflower'. This brief flowering life makes it a fascinating botanical curiosity.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Wooly SpiderwortTradescantia sillamontana
- Asiatic dayflowerCommelina communis
- SpiderwortTradescantia fluminensis
- Commelina diffusaCommelina diffusa
- Ohio spiderwortTradescantia ohiensis
- Commelina benghalensisCommelina benghalensis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.