Wishbone flower - Torenia fournieri (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Wishbone flower

Wishbone flower (Torenia fournieri) is an ornamental flowering plant often found in gardens. Wishbone flower is native to tropical Asia and Africa. Gardeners often grow this species in hanging baskets because it is easy to grow from seeds or from small cuttings.

Scientific classification

Species

Wishbone flower (Torenia fournieri)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Annual, Biennial, Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

30 cm to 38 cm

Plant Height

15 cm to 23 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 4 cm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

White, Purple, Blue, Yellow, Pink, Red

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Wishbone flower

Distribution of Wishbone flower

Distribution Map

Wishbone flower, a plant native to parts of Southeast Asia, has been introduced to several regions, including Central America, parts of South America, and various Asian locales. It flourishes in its introduced range, embracing diverse tropical and subtropical habitats. Moreover, wishbone flower is cultivated beyond these areas, indicative of its adaptability and spread beyond its endemic origin.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Disturbed upland

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Wishbone flower is a bushy annual suitable for shady areas of a garden, where it can provide a constant injection of color throughout the summer until the first frost. The vibrant purple-colored flower contrasts well against dark evergreens and makes a wonderful addition to hanging baskets and woodland gardens.

Symbolism

Meanings

Interesting Facts

Torenia fournieri comes in many different colors (pink, yellow, white, blue, red, and purple) and is a long-blooming plant, making it a popular choice for ornamental gardens. Some of the more vibrant color combinations have earned this plant its other common name: the clown flower

Name Story

Wishbone flower: The wishbone flower earns its common name because the flower contains two stamens that connect at the anthers and resemble a chicken’s wishbone. The scientific genus name honors Olaf Toren, an 18th-century Swedish botanist.

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Quickly Identify Wishbone flower

Vibrant two-tone blooms in lilac and purple with unique wishbone stamen structure.

Ovate light green leaves with serrated margin and slight hairiness, aiding in identification.

Smooth, green, glabrous stems measuring 0.1-0.15 inches in diameter, forming a bushy growth habit.

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Care Guide for Wishbone flower

Twice per week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Wishbone flower thrives in tropical rainforests, requiring consistent moisture and partial shade. Watering should occur twice weekly to maintain evenly moist soil without waterlogging. Grown outdoors, wishbone flower benefits from natural rainfall, especially during the active growing season for lush flowering.

Fertilize: For wishbone flower, use balanced fertilizers monthly to promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms, emphasizing nitrogen during active growth. Adjust seasonal applications; reduce during dormancy. Apply recommended doses evenly to moist soil, avoiding foliage contact to prevent over-fertilization damage.

Pruning: Wishbone flower features vibrant flowers and lush foliage. Prune in early to late spring to remove spent blooms and promote bushiness. Regular pruning enhances flowering, prevents disease, and encourages dense growth. Use sterilized tools for clean cuts and to avoid infections.

Propagation: The wishbone flower is best propagated in Spring by sowing seeds, which is an easy method. Successful propagation is marked by sprouting seedlings. Maintaining consistently moist soil conditions is crucial for optimal growth.

Repotting: Wishbone flower requires excellent drainage when planted in pots to thrive effectively.

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Images of Wishbone flower

Distribution of Wishbone flower

Culture

Quickly Identify Wishbone flower

Care Guide for Wishbone flower

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