Commelina ensifolia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Commelina ensifolia |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Commelina
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| Species: |
ensifolia
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Commelina ensifolia, often called scurvy weed or scurvy grass, is a small plant. It is an annual herb, meaning it lives for only one growing season. You can find it naturally in Australia, India, and Sri Lanka.
What is Scurvy Weed?
This plant usually grows close to the ground. It can even grow new roots from its stem as it spreads. Its flowers are a bright blue color. They have three petals, but one petal is much smaller. This makes the flower look like it only has two petals.
Where Does it Grow?
Commelina ensifolia likes damp soil. However, it is a very tough plant! It can grow in many different places. You might find it in wet coastal forests or even in dry central deserts. In deserts, it grows quickly after it rains, then dies back when it gets dry again.
Why is it Called Scurvy Weed?
For a long time, people have used this plant as food. Aboriginal people ate it as a green vegetable. Later, European settlers also ate the plant. They used it to help prevent scurvy. Scurvy is a sickness caused by not getting enough vitamin C. Eating this plant helped them stay healthy, which is why it got the name "scurvy grass" or "scurvy weed."
Is it a Weed?
In some areas where it grows naturally, Commelina ensifolia can be a minor weed. This means it might grow where people don't want it, like in gardens or farms.
