Commelina coelestis Willd.
Frost-hardy, vigorous, clump-forming, erect, tuberous perennial with fleshy stems, lance-shaped leaves and freely produced cymes of vivid blue flowers in summer and autumn. To 90cm. [RHSE, Hortus].
Horticultural & Botanical History
Introduced to Britain in 1813. [JD]. ‘Though this plant is frequently confused with C. tuberosa it is proved to be decidedly distinct, Mr. Sweet having obligingly informed the author that he has carefully compared the two species, and thus confirmed the opinions of Roemer et Schultz, and other botanists on the Continent, where the distinction is now generally adopted. This species, which has a larger and lighter coloured flower, longer and narrower leaves, than C tuberosa, is a native of Mexico, and was introduced into this country in 1813: it has been generally treated as a green-house plant, but it will grow perfectly well in the open air, though from the fleshy nature of the roots it is necessary to take them up in winter, and treat them in the same manner as Dahlias. C. crassifolia is the only species besides the two above mentioned, suitable for the flower garden.’ [Roscoe pl.47/1831].
History at Camden Park
Listed in all published catalogues [B.70/1843].
Notes
Published Jan 18, 2009 - 03:43 PM | Last updated Mar 08, 2010 - 10:45 AM
Commelina coelestis Willd. | Roscoe pl.47/1831 | BHL
| Family | Commelinaceae |
|---|---|
| Category | |
| Region of origin | Central and South America |
| Synonyms | |
| Common Name | Mexican day flower, Blue spiderwort, Widow?s tears |
| Name in the Camden Park Record | Commelina coelestis |
| Confidence level | high |