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Virginia dayflower

Scientific Name: Commelina virginica

Family: Commelinaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names: PA (Virginia day-flower)

       

Virginia Dayflower (Commelina virginica)

The Virginia dayflower, scientifically known as Commelina virginica, is a captivating perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the dayflower family.

Considerations for Pets and Children

  • This plant spreads by underground stems.
  • The Virginia dayflower is occasionally found growing in marshes and floodplains.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Commelina virginica L.
  • Common Name: Virginia dayflower
  • Family: Commelinaceae (Dayflower or Spiderwort Family)
  • Synonym: Commelina hirtella
  • Alternative Spelling: Commelyna virginica

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the mideastern United States.
  • Occasionally found in marshes and floodplains, specifically in the northern peninsula south to Marion county.
  • Grows in wet places, such as along swamps and rivers.
  • Observed at locations like Orlando Wetlands and Big Ridge State Park (Norris Lake shore).

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Herbaceous perennial plant.
  • Grows up to 1.2 meters (approximately 4 feet) in height.
  • Flowers bloom from June to August, with seeds ripening from August to October.
  • Distinguished by sky blue flowers that open daily for months.
  • Spreads quickly by underground stems, forming colonies.
  • Has a perennial rhizome, unlike many other members of its genus which have thin, fibrous roots.
  • Can grow in upright or prostrate forms.
  • May root at the stem nodes.

Quirky Facts

  • The easiest way to distinguish Commelina virginica from Commelina communis (Asiatic dayflower) is by observing the flowers.
  • Unlike most members of the genus, the Virginia dayflower has a perennial rhizome

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Mention of pest control products indicates potential susceptibility to certain pests.

Further Information

  • Discover Life offers a page dedicated to the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Commelina virginica.
  • Brooklyn Botanic Garden New York Metropolitan Flora Project (NYMF) has a photo page for Commelina virginica.
  • Dave's Garden is a community where gardeners share tips and ideas.
  • Wikimedia Commons hosts media related to Commelina virginica, including images.