Family: Commelinaceae
Common Name: Inch Plant

This genus comprises about 20 species of sprawling, creeping or semi-erect perennials, some of which have fragrant flowers. They are native to tropical America, Mexico and the south-east USA. In frost-prone parts of Europe, they are grown in an intermediate greenhouse or conservatory.

Species

C. elegans, striped inch plant, is a climber from southern Mexico. It has dark green, rounded, spear-shaped leaves, striped in silvery white, and white flowers. The leaves grow to 7.5 cm 13 in) long and the stems to 60 cm (24 in). The whole plant is clothed with minute soft hairs.

C. fragrans has loosely branched, fleshy stems to 1 m (3 ft), rounded, spear-shaped leaves up to 25 cm (10 in) long and fragrant white flowers. This species is popular for basket cultivation. Cultivar 'Melnickoff' has pale yellow or white, irregularly striped leaves.

Cultivation

Under glass, grow in pots of very well drained, soil-based potting compost and ensure maximum light. Propagate in spring from tip cuttings.

Climate

Zone 10 and above.