Grouped
among the 'spiderworts', the Commelina was either greatly
liked or disliked, depending on the gardener. Coming
originally from the Americas, the perennial Commelina
could be grown as an annual by sowing the seeds in heat
then nursing the plants under glass until May, when
they could be hardened off in cold
frames before being planted out towards the end
of the month.
The
tuberous roots could be kept in the same manner as dahlia
roots, being taken up early in October, removing the
stems, and packing them away in moist sand in a large
flower pot and put somewhere where no damp could get
to it, which would rot the roots. Tubers could then
be planted out again at the end of May when they would
begin to grow immediately. Hibberd, however, believed
saving the roots was a waste of time as they were so
easily raised from seed.
All
species of the Commelina required light, rich soil and
a sunny position.
