Herb: Birdbill Dayflower


Latin name: Commelina dianthifolia


Family: Commelinaceae (Spiderwort Family)



Medicinal use of Birdbill Dayflower:

An infusion of the plant is used as an aphrodisiac and as a strengthener for weakened patients with tuberculosis.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Perennial


Height:
10 cm
(4 inches)

Flowering:
July to
September

Habitat of the herb:

Rocky soils in Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas and Mexico.

Edible parts of Birdbill Dayflower:

The following use is for the closely related C. tuberosa, but is also probably appropriate for this species. Tubers - cooked. Rich in starch, but with a fairly bland flavour.

Propagation of the herb:

Seed - sow March in a greenhouse. The seed usually germinates in 4 - 5 weeks at 20°C. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots plant them out in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Division in early spring. Make sure that each portion has at least one growing bud. Cuttings during the growing season. Very easy.

Cultivation of Birdbill Dayflower:

Rocky soils in Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas and Mexico.

Known hazards of Commelina dianthifolia:

None known

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.