The Asiatic Dayflower (Commelina communis) is a herbaceous annual plant originating from East Asia. Also known as Common Dayflower, it features striking blue flowers, typically with two large blue petals and one smaller white petal. These flowers bloom for a single day, hence its common name. The plant often exhibits a sprawling or vine-like growth habit.
Essential Care Requirements
Light
Asiatic Dayflower prefers partial shade for best growth and flowering. However, this adaptable plant tolerates both full sun and light shade. In intense, direct sunlight, the plant may develop a leggy appearance with smaller foliage. Conversely, in deeply shaded areas, flowering may be reduced, and overall vigor might decline.
Water
This plant thrives in consistently moist to mesic soil conditions, reflecting its native humid and shaded environments. Regular watering, often weekly, helps maintain necessary soil moisture without waterlogging. While it tolerates brief dry spells, adequate hydration benefits lush foliage and robust growth. Proper drainage is important to prevent root rot, especially during periods of increased water uptake.
Soil
Asiatic Dayflower performs best in fertile, well-draining soil that also retains moisture effectively. Loamy or slightly sandy soil compositions are generally preferred. The plant can adapt to a range of soil types, but it particularly flourishes in nutrient-rich conditions. An ideal soil pH for optimal growth is typically slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5.
Temperature and Humidity
The Asiatic Dayflower prefers moderate temperatures, with an optimal range for flourishing growth between 68 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit (20-35 degrees Celsius). It benefits from moderate to high humidity levels, mimicking its moist origins. While generally resilient, the plant is sensitive to frost and extreme cold, which can cause browning and wilting of its leaves.
Managing Asiatic Dayflower Growth
The Asiatic Dayflower is known for its vigorous growth and self-seeding nature, which can lead to aggressive spreading in a garden. Its stems readily root at the nodes, allowing it to form new plants vegetatively and expand its territory. To manage its spread, especially when cultivating it ornamentally, regular pruning and cutting back are effective methods. This should be done frequently, ideally before the plant produces flowers, to prevent seed formation and dispersal.
To manage its spread, several methods can be employed:
Hand-pulling is effective for smaller infestations, especially when the soil is moist to ensure the entire root system is removed. If the soil is dry, stems may break off, allowing roots to regrow.
Competitive planting with dense groundcovers can help crowd out the dayflower by competing for resources in larger areas.
Mulching inhibits seed germination and seedling growth.
Solarization during hot periods can effectively eliminate established plants and their seeds.
Common Questions and Troubleshooting
The Asiatic Dayflower is often considered a weed in various regions due to its ability to outcompete other species. Its seeds can remain viable in the soil for several years, and new plants can sprout throughout the growing season, making consistent management necessary. While some herbicides are effective, the plant exhibits resistance to certain common types, such as glyphosate, which can complicate chemical control efforts.
If leaves show signs of yellowing, assess for potential overwatering, which can lead to root rot. The plant is generally resilient to pests and diseases, though spider mites may occasionally affect it.