Wishbone Flower
torenia fournieri
Also known as: ["Clammy Weed","Bluewings"]
Overview
An annual flowering plant native to Asia, known for its vibrant, snapdragon-like flowers and trailing habit.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus: | Torenia |
| Botanical Name: | Torenia fournieri |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or shaded garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; deadhead flowers as they fade.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates; adjust for seasonal light changes.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; place in filtered light during peak summer hours; move indoors if outdoor conditions become too harsh.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade
Rotate plants weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid placing near east-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 3–5 days
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues; ensure good drainage.
Soil
moist, well-draining, organic-rich potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy garden soil; ensure pots have drainage holes; test soil pH annually.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–75°F (18–24°C); prefers mild temperatures; sensitive to extreme heat or cold.
Use a thermometer to monitor plant environment; group plants to create microclimates; adjust watering based on temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; avoid fertilizing newly propagated plants until roots establish; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; take 3–4 inch cuttings just below a node.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–3 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; provide gentle bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; snip spent flowers just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before use; prune in early morning; dispose of pruned material away from the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for maintaining vigor and blooming.
Checklist
Use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes; avoid overwatering after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom; discard excess water from saucers.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the base of the plant to encourage root growth; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; increase frequency during hot, dry periods; reduce in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use a soil mix designed for flowering plants.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf scorch or bud drop in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move plants indoors or to a protected location; use a space heater if necessary; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; flowers may fade quickly; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; apply in early morning or evening; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2–4 weeks during active growth; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTorenia fournieri is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested in small amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicTorenia fournieri is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested in small amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicTorenia fournieri is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Torenia fournieri be watered?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Torenia fournieri require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade, especially in hot climates, to avoid wilting.
Q: Is Torenia fournieri pet-friendly?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade |
| Water: | every 3–5 days |
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