dagbloem

Dagbloem is the common Dutch name for the dayflower, a group of flowering plants in the family Commelinaceae. The term is most often applied to species in the genus Commelina, such as the common dayflower Commelina communis and the slender dayflower Commelina diffusa. The name reflects that the flowers typically open during the day and wither by afternoon.

Description and characteristics: Dayflowers are herbaceous plants, annual or perennial, with creeping or upright stems. Leaves are simple, lanceolate to oblong, and often glossy. Flowers are small and grouped in axillary inflorescences. They usually have three petals, with two larger blue petals and a smaller, contrasting inner petal, giving a characteristic dayflower appearance. The blooms are short-lived, frequently lasting only a day, and are often pollinated by bees and other insects.

Distribution and ecology: Dayflowers are native to parts of Asia and the Americas but are now widespread in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. They grow best in moist, disturbed soils and habitats such as roadside verges, fields, and wetlands. Some species, including Commelina benghalensis and Commelina diffusa, are considered weeds or invasive in certain regions due to rapid growth and broad tolerances.

Uses and notes: In horticulture, dayflowers are sometimes grown as ornamentals in suitable climates for their bright blue flowers. They can be easily propagated by seed or vegetative means. Some Commelina species have traditional uses in regional folk medicine, though practices vary by locale. As with many fast-spreading plants, dagbloem can become problematic in disturbed habitats where it outcompetes native vegetation.