SafePlants

Commelina dianthifolia: Bird-bill Dayflower

Commelina dianthifolia, commonly known as Bird-bill Dayflower, Birdbill Dayflower, Widow's Tears, or Western Dayflower, is a perennial herb appreciated for its vibrant blue flowers.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant's seed pod has a distinctive shape resembling a bird's beak, potentially attracting attention.

Considerations for Children

• The plant's seed pod has a distinctive shape resembling a bird's beak, potentially attracting attention.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Commelina dianthifolia Delile
• Family: Commelinaceae
• Synonyms: The text mentions Commelina elegans and Commelina virginica as possible synonyms, though context is not provided.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, and northern Mexico.
• Found in oak/pinyon pine/juniper woodlands, montane, and subalpine environments, such as the sycamore canyon woodlands of Arizona and the Bradshaw Mountains of northern Arizona.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Perennial herb growing from a tuberous root.
• Intensely blue flowers, approximately 1 inch wide, with 3 triangle-shaped petals.
• The plant possesses a distinctive spathe, a modified leaf or bract that encloses the flower cluster, with a long tapered point resembling a bird's beak or boat.
• Flowers close up in the afternoon.

Quirky Facts

• The name "dayflower" comes from the plant's habit of closing its flowers in the afternoon.
• One common name, "Widow's Tears," alludes to the plant's delicate beauty.
• The plant's seed pod is shaped like a bird's bill.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Attracts birds in certain habitats, such as near creeks, junipers, and pines.

Further Information

• Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: Contains a collection of over 42,000 plants, including Commelina dianthifolia.