Blue Spider Wort
Commelina coelestis
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Pl. BEC7 — Commelina coelestis
Commelina coelestisCommelina coelestisCommelina coelestisCommelina coelestisCommelina coelestisCommelina coelestisCommelina coelestisCommelina coelestisCommelina coelestisCommelina coelestisCommelina coelestisCommelina coelestisCommelina coelestisCommelina coelestis
IOverview
Overview
Blue Spider Wort, scientifically known as Commelina coelestis, is a perennial plant native to regions in Central and Northern Mexico, Argentina Northwest, Bolivia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and parts of Peru. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various environments. It prefers light, sandy soil and grows up to 0.5 meters tall. Known for its edible roots, Blue Spider Wort is valued for its culinary uses within its native range. Its distinctive feature lies in its spider-like flowers, which give the plant its common name.
Quick answers
What is Blue Spider Wort?
Blue Spider Wort, scientifically known as Commelina coelestis, is a perennial plant native to regions in Central and Northern Mexico, Argentina Northwest, Bolivia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and parts of Peru.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Blue Spider Wort thrives in full sun and prefers light, sandy soil that is either dry or moist. It is a perennial that grows to about 0.5 meters tall and is hardy in zones 8-11. For propagation, gardeners can use the root. This plant is native to regions including Argentina Northwest, Bolivia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and various parts of Mexico.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy)
Hardiness
8-11
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Blue Spider Wort for the first time
8steps
Start with Blue Spider Wort by planting it in a sunny spot and providing light, well-draining soil.
- 1
What you'll need
A packet of Blue Spider Wort seeds or small plants, a container or garden bed, potting mix, and water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost when temperatures are consistently above 15°C (60°F).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a light, sandy soil that drains well. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep in the garden bed or start them indoors 4 weeks before planting outside. Transplant small plants if needed.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Provide full sun exposure.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially in dry conditions or during heatwaves. Mulch around plants to retain moisture.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back any dead or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth and maintain plant health.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, neglecting to prune, and waiting too long to transplant.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The roots of Blue Spider Wort (Commelina coelestis) are edible and can be prepared in various ways. They are often cooked or dried before consumption. Skip
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
12 native · 6 introduced
Distribution
12 native · 6 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 12 native· 6 introduced
Asia1 region
introduced (1)India
Americas5 regions
native (5)BoliviaEl SalvadorGuatemalaHondurasPeru
Africa3 regions
introduced (3)KenyaMalawiTanzania
Broader regions
native:Mexico Northwest, Mexico Southeast, Mexico Southwest, Argentina Northwest, Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast
introduced:West Himalaya, East Himalaya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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