Virginia Day-Flower
Commelina virginica
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Pl. DEBC — Commelina virginica
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IOverview
Overview
Virginia Day-Flower (Commelina virginica) is a perennial plant found in the southeastern United States and parts of the Midwest, thriving in habitats ranging from dry to moist areas with light or partial sun exposure. Known for its edible leaves and roots, this plant can grow up to 1.2 meters tall. Its adaptability to various soil types—ranging from light (sandy) to medium—and a pH level between 5.2 and 7.2 makes it a versatile addition to gardens or natural landscapes. One distinctive feature of Virginia Day-Flower is its ability to form dense mats, contributing to both ornamental value and ecological benefits in the garden setting.
Quick answers
What is Virginia Day-Flower?
Virginia Day-Flower (Commelina virginica) is a perennial plant found in the southeastern United States and parts of the Midwest, thriving in habitats ranging from dry to moist areas with light or partial sun exposure. Known for its edible leaves and roots, this plant can grow up to 1.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Virginia Day-Flower thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist to dry conditions, making it adaptable to various environments. It grows well in light (sandy) or medium soil with a pH between 5.2 and 7.2. This plant can be both annual and perennial, reaching heights of up to 1.2 meters. For cultivation, propagate through seeds or division. Harvest edible parts such as leaves and roots for use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Annual, Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.2 m tall
Soil pH
5.2–7.2
For first-time growers
How to grow Virginia Day-Flower for the first time
8steps
Start with Virginia Day-Flower to add a low-maintenance, attractive plant to your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, or in late summer for fall blooms.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with full sun to partial shade. Ensure soil is well-draining and slightly acidic to neutral.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 inches deep, or plant seedlings at the same depth as they were in their container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide consistent watering during dry spells, especially if planted in drier soils or containers. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back any leggy growth to maintain a neat appearance and promote new growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting deadheading, not providing enough sunlight, and using too much fertilizer.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRoot
Edible uses: The Virginia Day-Flower (Commelina virginica) is both an annual and perennial plant found in various eastern U.S. states. Its leaves and roots are edible, often harvested from dry to moist soil with a pH of 5.2–7.2. These parts can be eaten raw or cooked, adding a mild flavor to dishes.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
24 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
24 native · 2 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 24 native· 2 introduced
Asia2 regions
native (1)Georgia
introduced (1)Japan
Americas1 region
introduced (1)Puerto Rico
Broader regions
native:Kentucky, Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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