Torenia Fournieri
Torenia fournieri
Torenia fournieri, the Wishbone Flower, is a compact tropical annual celebrated for its bicolored, trumpet-shaped blooms that thrive in shade. Named for its wishbone-shaped stamens, it symbolizes happiness, good luck, and charm -- and is one of the finest flowering plants for shady gardens and containers.
Linderniaceae (formerly Scrophulariaceae)
Early summer through the first frosts (June to October); flowers continuously without deadheading
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: osteospermums and chrysanthemums also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The wishbone shape of the fused stamens ties this flower to the ancient and widespread tradition of wishing on wishbones. The Etruscans of ancient Italy were among the earliest known cultures to treasure the wishbone (furcula) as a symbol of good fortune, a tradition later adopted by the Romans and passed across Europe. The genus name Torenia honors the Reverend Olof Toren (1718-1753), a Swedish botanist and chaplain to the Swedish East India Company who traveled in Asia during the mid-18th century. The specific epithet fournieri honors French botanist Eugene Pierre Nicolas Fournier (1834-1884). In the Victorian language of flowers, blue and violet blooms generally represented trust, fidelity, and deep admiration.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Partial shade to full shade; most cultivars are intolerant of intense afternoon sun and high heat; morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal
Water
Consistent moisture throughout the growing season; keep roots cool with mulch; never allow soil to dry out completely but avoid waterlogging
Soil
Moist, Well-drained, Organically rich, Slightly acidic to neutral
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in partial to full shade; too much sun causes stress and reduced flowering
Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and keep roots cool during summer heat
Pinch back upright compact types to encourage a bushier habit and more blooms
Plants are self-cleaning -- deadheading is not necessary
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date; direct sowing can be tricky as seeds are very fine
Torenia dislikes transplanting -- avoid disturbing roots when planting out
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Shade garden bedding plant -- one of the best annuals for low-light areas
- Hanging baskets and window boxes with the trailing variety
- Container specimen for patios, porches, and indoor windowsills
- Edging and foreground planting in woodland or cottage gardens
- Companion to impatiens, begonias, caladiums, hostas, and ferns in shady borders
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Torenia Fournieri
What does the wishbone flower symbolize?
The Wishbone Flower (Torenia fournieri) symbolizes happiness, good luck, and charm. Its name refers to the wishbone-shaped stamens inside each bloom, linking it to the long cultural tradition of making wishes on wishbones for good fortune and optimism. Different colors carry additional meanings: purple for admiration, blue for peace and serenity, and pink for gentle affection.
Why is Torenia called the wishbone flower?
Two stamens inside the flower fuse at their tips to form a structure that closely resembles the forked wishbone (furcula) found in birds. This unique botanical feature gives the plant its most popular common name. The wishbone tradition itself dates back to ancient Etruscan civilization and has been associated with good luck for thousands of years.
Does Torenia grow well in shade?
Yes -- the Wishbone Flower is one of the best annual flowering plants for shady gardens. It thrives in partial to full shade and is one of the few annuals that can bloom prolifically in low-light conditions. Most cultivars struggle in full afternoon sun and perform best with morning light and afternoon shade, especially in hot climates.
Is Torenia fournieri a perennial or annual?
Torenia fournieri is technically a tender perennial in its native tropical habitat, but it is grown as an annual in most gardens because it cannot survive frost. It is hardy as a perennial only in USDA zones 10 and 11. In cooler zones, it is typically started fresh each season from seed or purchased as transplants in spring.
Is Torenia fournieri toxic to cats or dogs?
Torenia fournieri is generally considered non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans, making it a relatively safe choice for households with pets. However, ingestion of any plant material in large quantities can cause mild gastrointestinal upset, so it is best to discourage pets from chewing on the plant.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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