Slender Dayflower

(Commelina obliqua)

Slender Dayflower (Commelina obliqua)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 46" - 81"
High Temp. 77°F - 100°F
Low Temp. 41°F - 62°F

Summary

Commelina obliqua, commonly known as Slender Dayflower or Whitemouth Dayflower, is a perennial herb that is native to a variety of habitats including moist forest clearings, stream banks, and grasslands in Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. It typically grows at a moderate rate to a height and width of 0.5-1 feet (0.15-0.3 meters). The plant features lance-shaped leaves and distinctive blue or purple flowers with three petals, two of which are large and showy, and one is small and white, hence the name "Whitemouth." The flowers bloom prolifically in the summer and are short-lived, typically lasting just one day.

The Slender Dayflower is valued for its attractive flowers and its ability to fill in spaces as a ground cover in garden settings. It is also used in borders and as an understory plant in subtropical gardens. This plant is relatively easy to maintain and can be grown in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, or sandy soils, as long as they provide medium drainage. It prefers full sun to part shade, making it a versatile choice for gardeners. While generally not prone to serious pests or diseases, it can spread in some areas, so gardeners should monitor its growth.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Blue, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Border Plant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant

Natural Habitat

Moist forest clearings, stream banks, and grasslands in Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands

Other Names

Common Names: Whitemouth Dayflower

Scientific Names: Commelina obliqua, Athyrocarpus mathewsii, Commelina bambusifolioides, Commelina communis, Commelina erecta var. obliqua, Commelina mathewsii, Commelina monticola, Commelina monticola var. vestita, Commelina obliqua f. albiflora

GBIF Accepted Name: Commelina obliqua