Torenia, also known as wishbone flower, is a beautiful and versatile plant that is typically grown as an annual. However, in certain climates, it may be possible for Torenia to come back every year. Let’s explore this further.
In general, Torenia is considered an annual plant because it is not cold hardy and cannot withstand freezing temperatures. It is native to tropical regions and thrives in warm, humid conditions. Therefore, in zones where winter temperatures drop below freezing, Torenia will not survive the cold and will need to be replanted each year.
However, in zones 10-11, where the climate is milder and frost is rare, Torenia has a better chance of overwintering and potentially returning the following year. These zones typically have warmer winters and longer growing seasons, providing a more suitable environment for Torenia to survive and potentially reemerge in the spring.
To increase the chances of Torenia coming back each year in these zones, there are a few steps you can take. Firstly, make sure to provide the plant with optimal growing conditions during the growing season. Torenia prefers partial shade to full sun, well-draining soil, and regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist. By providing these ideal conditions, you can help the plant establish a strong root system, which can improve its chances of surviving the winter.
In colder zones where Torenia is grown as an annual, you can still enjoy its beauty by treating it as a seasonal plant. Plant Torenia in containers or hanging baskets, which can be easily moved indoors when temperatures begin to drop. This way, you can prolong the plant’s lifespan and enjoy its vibrant blooms for a longer period.
Personal experience: In my own garden, I have had mixed success with Torenia overwintering. I live in zone 9, where the winters can be mild but still occasionally experience freezing temperatures. Some years, my Torenia plants have managed to survive the winter and come back the following year, while other times they have not. I have found that providing them with extra protection, such as covering them with a frost blanket or moving them to a more sheltered location, can increase their chances of survival.
While Torenia is primarily grown as an annual, it may be possible for it to come back each year in zones 10-11, where the climate is more favorable for its survival. Providing optimal growing conditions and taking extra precautions during winter can improve the chances of Torenia returning in these zones. However, in colder zones, treating Torenia as a seasonal plant and providing protection during winter is recommended to enjoy its beauty year after year.
