Commelinus

Commelinus is a genus of herbaceous flowering plants in the family Commelinaceae, commonly known as the spiderworts or dayflowers. This genus comprises approximately 65 species native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas and Africa. Species within Commelinus are characterized by their fleshy, often succulent leaves and their distinctive three-petaled flowers, which are typically blue or purple, though white and pink varieties exist. The flowers are ephemeral, often opening in the morning and closing by the afternoon, giving rise to the common name "dayflower."

The common spiderwort, Commelinus communis, is a widely distributed and well-known species, often cultivated as an ornamental plant. It is also naturalized in many parts of the world beyond its native range. Other notable species include Commelinus erectus and Commelinus benghalensis. Commelinus species are generally adaptable and can thrive in a variety of habitats, from moist woodland understories to disturbed areas. Their rapid growth and seed production can sometimes lead to them becoming invasive in certain environments. The genus is named after the Dutch botanists Jan Commelin and his nephew Caspar Commelin.