Dayflower – Dayflower family (Commelinaceae) 
Commelina erecta L.
Region: 1 through 10 (Ellis County is in Region 4)
Size: 6-18 inches
Blooms: May through October, Perennial
Dayflower is first erect, then trailing, occasionally reaching three feet. There are a number of species in Texas similar enough to be difficult to distinguish. All have three petals, the upper two of which can range from white to, more commonly, a beautiful clear blue. Below these is a third, insignificant, whitish petal which may or may not be noticed. Several buds are clustered in a boat-shaped, sheathing bract, forming a spathe, from which the flower stalks emerge. Squeezing the spathe gently will produce a tear-like drop of liquid, suggesting another common name, widow’s tears. The base of the long, linear leaves wraps the succulent stem in a sheath. Dayflowers close early in the day. Edible stems, leaves and flowers of tender young plants have a pleasant flavor used raw, stewed or sautéed.
Article by: Melinda Kocian
Recent Blog Posts:
Flame-Proof Perennials - By definition, perennial plants live for more than two years. Annual plants complete their life cycle in one year, while biennial plants require two years. There are perennial plants which... Read More →
Chile Peppers for August - You’re probably as tired of talking about the hot weather as I am. So, let’s talk about some wonderful plants that love the long hot summers of the Southwest and... Read More →
Having what it takes to become a Master Gardener - Ellis County Master Gardeners hosted an informal Meet & Greet for those interested in taking the Intern training for 2023. The group met on Tuesday evening, the 26th, at First... Read More →
Dayflower - Dayflower – Dayflower family (Commelinaceae) Commelina erecta L. Region: 1 through 10 (Ellis County is in Region 4) Size: 6-18 inches Blooms: May through October, Perennial Dayflower is first erect,... Read More →
Texas Star Hibiscus - There are many hardy hibiscus varieties that provide summer blossoms for our enjoyment. These are the rose mallows, Rose of Sharon, Altheas, and Confederate roses that graced our grandmothers’ gardens... Read More →
August in the Garden - “It’s August”… what needs to be done? PLANTING Plant these fall vegetables early in the month: beans, cucumbers and squash. Follow up late in the month with transplants of broccoli,... Read More →