Torenia -- Little Clown Faces
Torenia is a fine choice for people who are tired of impatiens, since some people think they’re a bit overused. (Not me, of course!) Torenia is a cousin to the snapdragon and the blooms look like little clown faces. Torenia is also known as “wishbone flower.” Why? I really don’t know!
A super easy-to-grow plant, torenia requires no deadheading. (Always a plus for busy gardeners!) It loves flower beds and borders, and it’s touted as being deer-resistant. (I’m not so sure about that! Those leaves look like tender leaves that deer love.)
Like impatiens, torenia is a long bloomer, lasting until it is nipped by frost in autumn. Although some varieties are slightly more sun tolerant, torenia grows best in partial or full shade. It works well in flower beds, but it’s a great “spiller,” which means it gracefully cascades over a pot or hanging basket.
Color? Purple! You Bet! Also various combinations of purple, white, pink, blue and yellow, but purple is the color that jumps out.
