Wishbone Flower (Torenia fournieri)

Wishbone Flower

Torenia fournieri

Delicate snapdragon-like blooms bring soft color to shade. Low-growing annual bedding plant; common name: bluewings.

Partial sun
2–3/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Prefers partial shade to filtered bright light; tolerates morning sun but avoid harsh midday direct sun
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting the substrate dry out completely
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Temperature Thrives in 18–24℃; avoid temperatures below 10℃ which can cause leaf drop
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Opposite, ovate to lanceolate leaves with serrated margins; bright medium green
  • Flower: Tubular, two-lipped blooms in blue, purple, pink, or white; distinctive wishbone-shaped stamens
  • Stem: Slender, branching stems with a trailing or mounding growth form
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Care Guide

Watering

Water regularly to maintain even moisture; mist foliage in hot, dry weather

Fertilization

Feed with diluted balanced fertilizer every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in late autumn as growth ceases

Banana peel tea:Steep 1 peeled banana in 1 liter of water for 24 hours; strain and use as a root drench to support flowering
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering
  • Pinch back stem tips to promote bushier growth
  • Trim leggy stems mid-season to maintain compact form
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes gentle joy and quiet beauty in shaded garden spaces

Usage: Ornamental bedding plant, hanging basket filler, container garden accent