💜 Wishbone Flower (Torenia fournieri / Clown Flower / Bluewings)

Torenia, commonly called the Wishbone Flower, is a charming seasonal bloomer loved for its velvety trumpet-shaped flowers and soft contrasting colours ranging from purple, pink, blue, white, to bicolor blends. Compact and graceful, it thrives in warm weather and bright indirect light. Perfect for window boxes, borders, balcony planters, and shaded gardens, it adds cheerful colour where most flowering plants struggle to bloom.

🔆 Light Requirements

Ideal Light:
☀ Bright indirect light or partial shade (morning sun, afternoon shade).

Tolerates: Full shade in very hot climates, though blooming may reduce slightly.

Avoid: Harsh direct afternoon sun — can scorch leaves and fade flowers.

💧 Watering Guidelines

When to Water:
Water when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry.

Frequency:

• Summer: 3–4 times weekly (depending on heat and pot size)

• Monsoon/Winter: Reduce to prevent soggy soil

Important: Torenia dislikes drying out completely but also cannot sit in waterlogged soil.

🌾 Soil & Potting

Soil: Moist, airy, fertile soil with excellent drainage.

Ideal Mix:
✔ 40% garden soil
✔ 40% compost or cocopeat
✔ 20% perlite/sand for drainage

Pot Size: Medium pot (8–12 inches) or balcony rail planters.

🌱 Fertilization

Feed Every 2–3 Weeks During Growth Season

Best Fertilizer Types:
✔ Balanced NPK (organic slow-release or liquid)
✔ Seaweed extract or bio-grow boosters
✔ Vermicompost or cow manure in small amounts

Avoid: Very high nitrogen — promotes leaves over blooms.

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

• Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming.

• Pinch young tips to encourage bushier growth.

• Remove dried or yellow leaves regularly to maintain airflow and prevent fungal infections.

🪴 Humidity & Temperature

Humidity: Enjoys moderate to high humidity.

Temperature: Best between 18°C–32°C (65°F–90°F).

Heat Note: Protect from scorching summer sun and extreme heat.

🌼 Blooming Notes

Blooms continuously during warm months and monsoon season when:

✔ Soil stays lightly moist
✔ Light is bright but filtered
✔ Fertilizer is applied consistently

Flowers attract attention with a delicate wishbone-shaped stamen inside the bloom — a symbol of luck.

🐝 Pollinator Friendly

Attracts bees, butterflies, and small garden pollinators, making it an excellent balcony ecosystem plant.

⚠️ Pet Note

Generally safe and non-toxic, pet-friendly and child-friendly.

✅ Why Choose Torenia (Wishbone Flower)?

🌤 Perfect for balconies or gardens with partial shade
🎨 Comes in vibrant colours and charming bicolor patterns
🌿 Compact, easy-care, and long-blooming
🐾 Pet-safe and ideal for family gardens
💐 Excellent for edging, hanging baskets, and window boxes