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IIIFolio · plant profile№ 14F2edible
Data provenancePermapeopleTreflePFAFPOWOreviewed 13 Oct 2026methodology → read

Birdbill Dayflower

Commelina dianthifolia
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Commelina dianthifolia (Birdbill Dayflower) — botanical photograph
Pl. 14F2 — Commelina dianthifolia
Commelina dianthifoliaCommelina dianthifoliaCommelina dianthifoliaCommelina dianthifoliaCommelina dianthifoliaCommelina dianthifoliaCommelina dianthifoliaCommelina dianthifoliaCommelina dianthifoliaCommelina dianthifoliaCommelina dianthifoliaCommelina dianthifoliaCommelina dianthifoliaCommelina dianthifolia
I

Overview

Birdbill Dayflower (Commelina dianthifolia) is a perennial forb or herb native to regions including Arizona, Colorado, and various parts of Mexico such as the Gulf, Central, Northeast, Northwest, Southwest, and New Mexico. This plant thrives in light to partial shade with well-drained soil that can be either dry or moist. It has a hardiness range of 6-9, making it adaptable but thriving best in full sun or partial shade. The Birdbill Dayflower is known for its edible roots, which can be consumed raw or cooked after boiling to soften them. The plant features small, blue-violet flowers that resemble tiny trumpets and bloom throughout the year, adding ornamental value to landscapes. Its distinctive appearance includes these vibrant flowers and its ability to grow in a variety of conditions, making it a versatile addition to gardens. While not medicinal, Birdbill Dayflower serves as an important resource for those familiar with its uses, particularly for foraging communities. When handling or consuming any part of this plant, caution should be exercised to ensure proper identification, as some plants may look similar but have different properties.

Quick answers

What is Birdbill Dayflower?

Birdbill Dayflower (Commelina dianthifolia) is a perennial forb or herb native to regions including Arizona, Colorado, and various parts of Mexico such as the Gulf, Central, Northeast, Northwest, Southwest, and New Mexico.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Birdbill Dayflower thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist to dry conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types ranging from light (sandy) to medium. It is a perennial that grows up to 0.1 meters tall and can be propagated through root cuttings. Hardy in zones 6-9, this plant is native to regions including Arizona, Colorado, and parts of Mexico. For best results, ensure the soil remains consistently moist during dry periods while providing ample sunlight for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
6-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.1 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Birdbill Dayflower for the first time

8steps

Start with a simple, low-maintenance approach to growing Birdbill Dayflower.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A small pot or garden bed, seeds or young plants.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost, when temperatures are mild.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use well-draining soil; a mix of sand and loam works well. Ensure containers have drainage holes.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep, or transplant young plants into the prepared soil.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water sparingly to avoid rotting roots; keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun to partial shade and allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Prune occasionally for a tidy appearance.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead leaves and spent flowers to encourage new growth and maintain plant health.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting sun exposure, not providing enough space for root growth.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The Birdbill Dayflower's roots are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. They are often prepared by boiling to soften them before eating. Skip the detailed recipe as per instructions.
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

10 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 10 native
Americas1 region
native (1)Guatemala
Broader regions
native:Arizona, Colorado, Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, Mexico Southwest, New Mexico, Texas
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Commelina dianthifolia (Birdbill Dayflower) — botanical photograph
Birdbill Dayflower (Commelina dianthifolia)
XI

Explore further

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About this entry

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