Family: Commelinaceae
Author: R.Br.
Bibliography: Prodr. Fl. Nov. Holland.: 269 (1810)
Year: 1810
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Commelina
Vegetable: False
Observations: Australia to Norfolk I.
Description
Scurvy Weed (Commelina cyanea)
Scurvy Weed, scientifically known as Commelina cyanea, is an interesting and visually appealing plant that belongs to the Commelinaceae family. Originally classified in 1810, this species was formally described in Robert Brown’s Prodromus Florae Novae Hollandiae et Insulae Van Diemen.
Native to the diverse landscapes of Australia, Commelina cyanea thrives in various habitats ranging from the coastal regions to the inland areas. Its range extends from the Australian mainland to Norfolk Island, showcasing its adaptability to different environmental conditions.
The plant’s common name, Scurvy Weed, hints at its historical use as a natural remedy. Indigenous peoples and early European settlers valued it for its high vitamin C content, which was particularly beneficial for preventing and treating scurvy—a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency.
Commelina cyanea is characterized by its vibrant blue flowers, which usually bloom during the warmer months. These flowers, typically small but striking, contribute not only to the plant’s beauty but also to its role in the local ecosystem, attracting a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
As a member of the Commelinaceae family, Scurvy Weed shares several common traits with its relatives. It is generally a low-growing, spreading herb, making it an excellent ground cover in gardens. The plant’s leaves are lance-shaped and often exhibit a delicate, slightly glossy green surface that adds to its aesthetic appeal.
Despite its quirky common name, Commelina cyanea is a resilient and versatile plant that can be an attractive addition to garden landscapes, while also providing ecological benefits by supporting local wildlife.
Common Names
En: Scurvy weed
Synonyms
- Commelina cyanea f. albiflora (Domin)
- Commelina cyanea var. verreauxii (C.B.Clarke)
Distribution
- New South Wales (native)
- Norfolk Is. (native)
- Northern Territory (native)
- Queensland (native)
- Western Australia (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Oct 29, 2022 by ian connop (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 16, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Oct 29, 2022 by ian connop (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 16, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 16, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Oct 29, 2022 by ian connop (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:172000-1)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2764178)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Commelina cyanea R.Br.)