Slender Day-Flower
Commelina erectafam. Commelinaceae
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Pl. 0FAA — Commelina erecta
Commelina erectaCommelina erectaCommelina erectaCommelina erectaCommelina erectaCommelina erectaCommelina erectaCommelina erectaCommelina erectaCommelina erectaCommelina erectaCommelina erectaCommelina erectaCommelina erecta
IOverview
Overview
Slender Day-Flower (Commelina erecta) is a perennial plant native to regions including Alabama, Angola, and various parts of South America and Africa. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and can be found growing in dry or moist conditions with light to medium soil. This plant reaches heights of up to 1.2 meters and is hardy in zones 8-11. Slender Day-Flower is known for its edible roots, making it a valuable food source in some areas. Its adaptability across diverse climates and habitats contributes to its widespread distribution.
Quick answers
What is Slender Day-Flower?
Slender Day-Flower (Commelina erecta) is a perennial plant native to regions including Alabama, Angola, and various parts of South America and Africa. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and can be found growing in dry or moist conditions with light to medium soil.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Slender Day-Flower thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist to dry conditions. It grows well in light (sandy) and medium soil types. Hardy in zones 8-11, this perennial can reach up to 1.2 meters in height. Propagate via seeds or division of the roots. Harvest the edible root for culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
8-11
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.2 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Slender Day-Flower for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, low-maintenance perennial that thrives in various conditions.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or small plants, potting soil, containers or garden space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall for cooler climates.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil; ensure containers have drainage holes. For gardens, prepare loose, sandy to medium soil.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 inches deep in the garden or start indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outside. Transplant young plants carefully.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in full to partial sun.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Provide light shade during hot afternoons if necessary. Deadhead flowers for continuous blooming.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and spent blooms to maintain plant health and appearance. No specific harvesting needed as it's primarily grown for its ornamental value.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, neglecting to prune dead foliage.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The slender day-flower's roots are edible and can be prepared in various ways. They are typically dug up and eaten raw or cooked. The root provides a mild flavor and is sometimes added to soups or stews for extra nutrition.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 30 native
Americas5 regions
native (5)BahamasBelizeBoliviaColombiaCosta Rica
Africa8 regions
native (8)AngolaBeninBotswanaBurkina FasoBurundiCabo VerdeCameroonChad
Broader regions
native:Argentina Northeast, Argentina Northwest, Arizona, Arkansas, Aruba, Bermuda, Brazil North, Brazil Northeast, Brazil South, Brazil Southeast, Brazil West-Central, Cape Provinces, Cayman Is., Central African Repu, Colorado, Congo, Alabama
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
3 related
See also
3 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Commelinaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Commelinaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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