Commelinaceae, Dayflower or Spiderwort Family
Species of Commelinaceae are typically perennials and some are annuals. Plants in this family are usually erect, spreading or ascending. The alternate simple leaves are succulent and emerge from sheaths in a characteristic fashion of the family.
Commelinaceae have over 40 genera and 723 accepted species names. There are over 50 species in the United States and Canada. Arizona has 4 native species in the Commelinaceae family.