Whitemouth dayflower (Commelina erecta)
Care, watering, light and tips for Whitemouth dayflower on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Commelinaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Whitemouth dayflower
Commelina erecta, commonly known as Erect Dayflower, is an annual or short-lived perennial herb native to the Americas. It is characterized by its delicate, ephemeral blue flowers, emerging from boat-shaped bracts. It's ideal for wild gardens, low-maintenance areas, or as ground cover in sunny spots.
Native range
Americas
Care tips
It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soils, though it's quite adaptable to various soil types. It tolerates drought once established, but regular watering during dry spells will encourage better blooming. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can promote leafy growth at the expense of flowers. This is a hardy plant and can become invasive under favorable conditions.
How to save a dying Whitemouth dayflower
- Warning signs
- Wilted, yellowing or pale leaves; no flowering; stunted growth.
- First aid
- Move to partial shade, ensure moist but not waterlogged soil, improve drainage if needed.
- What kills it
- Prolonged drought and intense direct sun. It dislikes constant waterlogging but loves humidity.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, it's very resilient. With proper water and shade, it usually recovers quickly.