Torenia crustacea
Torenia crustacea · Linderniaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant torenia crustacea: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Wishbone flower, Torenia
- Family
- Linderniaceae
- Type
- Annual or biennial herbaceous plant
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm in height
- Flowering
- Spring to autumn
- Light exposure
- Partial shade to light shade
- Hardiness
- Frost-tender, grown as an annual
- Origin
- Southeast Asia (Myanmar)
- Foliage
- Deciduous, tender and soft
Care
Watering
Keep the soil regularly moist, without excess. Water at the base to avoid wetting the foliage. During warm periods, increase watering frequency, but ensure sufficient drainage to prevent root rot. Reduce slightly in autumn.
Light exposure
Torenia fears direct full sun which scorches its tender leaves. Choose partial shade or light filtered shade. It tolerates even moderate indoor light. Place it away from intense midday rays.
Soil and substrate
Prefer rich, light and well-draining soil. A mixture of quality potting soil with perlite or sand improves aeration. Neutral to slightly acidic pH is ideal. Avoid heavy and compacted soils which promote root asphyxiation.
Fertilizing
Apply a balanced diluted fertilizer every two to three weeks during growth (spring-summer). Reduce in autumn. Excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowering: dose moderately.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch young stems to encourage branching and a more compact shape. Remove spent flowers regularly to extend blooming. You can cut back the plant lightly in mid-autumn to rejuvenate it.
Pests and diseases
Watch for powdery mildew and leaf spots in case of stagnant humidity. Aphids can occasionally infest it: treat with a gentle spray if necessary. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal problems.
Did you know?
Torenia is nicknamed the "Wishbone flower" in reference to the characteristic shape of its united stamens, which resembles a chicken wishbone. Native to Myanmar, it has long been cultivated as an ornamental potted plant in Asia before conquering European gardens. Its tender foliage and small violet-colored flowers make it delicate yet remarkably charming.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Savannah false pimpernelLindernia grandiflora
- Yellowseed false pimpernelLindernia dubia
- LavenderLavandula angustifolia
- Fig treeFicus carica
- RosemarySalvia rosmarinus
- Japanese mapleAcer palmatum
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.