How to Grow Bluebird Flower
iNaturalist
Bluebird Flower
Commelina communis
flowerBluebird (Commelina) is a delicate ornamental flowering plant known for its striking blue flowers with three petals. These charming blooms typically appear in mid to late summer and attract pollinators to the garden. The plant is relatively easy to grow and makes an excellent addition to borders, containers, and cottage gardens.
When should you plant Bluebird Flower in your zone?
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Example Bluebird Flower timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Bluebird Flower
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Bluebird Flower blooms
Around Jun 1≈ 45 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Bluebird Flower dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9, with best performance in zones 4-8
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings emerge with small oval cotyledons and develop true leaves within 1-2 weeks
Keep soil moist but not soggy. Provide indirect light. Thin seedlings to appropriate spacing.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksPlant develops multiple stems and lance-shaped green leaves, building a bushy structure
Water regularly and pinch back growing tips to encourage bushier growth. Apply balanced fertilizer monthly.
Budding
1-2 weeksSmall flower buds form at stem tips and leaf axils
Continue regular watering and feeding. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen as this promotes foliage over blooms.
Flowering
8-12 weeksDelicate three-petaled blue flowers open, typically in morning hours, lasting until afternoon
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Water consistently. Provide afternoon shade in very hot climates.
Seed Development
2-3 weeksFlowers fade and develop seed capsules that mature to brown papery structures
Allow some flowers to remain for self-seeding if desired. Collect seed pods once fully dry for seed saving.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil if infestation is severe. Increase humidity around plants.
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Remove heavily infested leaves.
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and
Hand-pick in early morning or evening. Create barriers with copper tape. Use organic slug baits.
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Spray with strong water spray; use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs.
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinaryBluebird flowers are technically edible and can be used as garnishes on salads and desserts for a pop of blue color. They add visual appeal to culinary presentations without strong flavor. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
CraftThe delicate blue blooms are perfect for fresh flower arrangements, pressed flower crafts, and decorative displays. They work well in small bouquets and add charming color to floral designs. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeBluebird flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden. This makes them valuable for supporting pollinator populations and creating a vibrant ecosystem. [source]
Garden Ornament
HouseholdThese flowers serve as beautiful ornamental plants for borders, containers, and cottage gardens. Their cheerful blue color brightens garden spaces throughout the growing season. [source]
Traditional Medicine
MedicinalSome Commelina species have been used in traditional Asian medicine for various purposes. Consult a qualified herbalist before any medicinal use. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Bluebirds are primarily ornamental flowers grown for display rather than harvest. Cut flowers in early morning when blooms first open for indoor arrangements. Deadhead spent flowers regularly throughout the season to promote continuous blooming. To collect seeds, allow some flowers to fade on the plant and collect dried seed pods in late summer.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Bluebird flowers are ephemeral bloomers, meaning each flower typically lasts only one day, opening in the morning and closing by afternoon, but the plant continuously produces new flowers.
- 🌱 The plant has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries and is known as 'Dayflower' because of its characteristic one-day bloom cycle.
- 🌱 Bluebird flowers have an unusual feature: they can produce two types of flowers—showy flowers that open completely and small hidden flowers that self-pollinate without opening.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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