The “Suki Flower,” more commonly known as Torenia fournieri or the Wishbone Flower, is a popular annual plant. Its common name comes from the two stamens inside the bloom that join to form a wishbone shape. These plants typically grow 6 to 12 inches tall and spread 8 to 10 inches wide, though trailing varieties can extend up to 36 inches, adapting them for various garden uses. Their trumpet-shaped flowers, often bicolored or tricolored, bloom continuously from late spring until the first frost in shades of blue, purple, pink, white, and yellow. Torenia brightens shady garden beds, borders, containers, window boxes, and hanging baskets.
Suki Flower Care Essentials
Torenia thrives in partial to full shade, preferring consistent afternoon shade in warmer climates to prevent stress. In cooler northern regions, it may tolerate more sun.
Torenia grows best in well-draining, rich, loamy soil with ample organic matter. Incorporate compost before planting for a beneficial foundation. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6.0-6.5), but can tolerate up to 8.0.
Torenia needs consistent moisture, preferring moist but not waterlogged conditions. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring moderate water without sogginess to prevent root rot. Apply organic mulch around the base to retain moisture and keep roots cool.
Torenia flourishes in warm temperatures and moderate to high humidity. It is tender to frost, typically grown as an annual, but can overwinter in USDA Zones 10-11. For continuous blooms, fertilize regularly with a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) every few weeks, or use a slow-release granular fertilizer at planting.
Planting and Ongoing Maintenance
Plant Torenia in spring after all danger of frost has passed. For seeds, sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost, pressing them onto the soil surface without covering, as they need light to germinate. Transplant seedlings with a few true leaves when outdoor temperatures are consistently warm, spacing them 8 to 10 inches apart for air circulation.
Pinch young Torenia plants for bushier, more compact growth. While many hybrids are self-cleaning, removing spent blooms can promote continuous flowering. Prune to maintain tidiness or encourage branching if plants become leggy.
Maintain plant health by ensuring good air circulation with adequate spacing. Avoid overhead watering; instead, water at the base to keep foliage dry and reduce fungal disease risk.
Common Issues and Solutions
Lack of blooms often stems from insufficient light (deep shade) or nutrient imbalance. Ensure adequate, but not direct, sunlight and a consistent feeding schedule with balanced fertilizer to stimulate flowering.
Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering or nutrient deficiencies. Check soil moisture before watering, allowing the top inch to dry to prevent overwatering. A regular fertilization program can address nutrient shortfalls.
Common pests include aphids and spider mites, which can yellow or discolor leaves. Dislodge pests with a strong water spray or apply insecticidal soaps.
Torenia is susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew (whitish growth on leaves in humid, poor air circulation) and root rot (excessively wet soil). Proper plant spacing for air circulation and careful watering to avoid waterlogging are key preventative measures.