Commelina elliptica
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Basic Information
Family: Commelinaceae
Genus: commelina
Plant ID (slug): commelina-elliptica
Numeric ID: 20686
USDA Hardiness: 7-10
Ratings
Physical Characteristics
Commelina elliptica is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Distribution
South-western N. America - mountains of Mexico and south to Peru and Bolivia.
Habitats
Cultivated Beds;
Edible Uses
Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: The following use is for the closely related C. tuberosa, but is also probably appropriate for this species[K]. Tubers - cooked. Rich in starch[105, 177], but with a fairly bland flavour.
Medicinal Uses
None known
Known Hazards
None known
Detailed Information
Additional Information
Title: Commelina elliptica