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Description
Torenia Crustacea, also known as the coast wishbone flower, is a species of flowering plant in the Linderniaceae family. It is native to coastal areas of eastern and northern Australia, where it grows in wet or marshy areas, such as swamps and riverbanks. The plant is named after its wishbone-shaped stamen, which is unique among flowering plants.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Linderniaceae |
| Genus | Torenia |
Appearance
Torenia Crustacea is a low-growing perennial plant that can reach up to 30cm in height and 60cm in width. It has oval-shaped leaves that are bright green and grow up to 5cm in length. The plant produces small, tubular flowers in shades of violet-blue with a yellow and white throat. The flowers bloom from spring to summer and attract butterflies and bees to the garden.
Care Guide
Torenia Crustacea is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Torenia Crustacea prefers rich, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH (around 6.0-6.5).
- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full shade. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day.
- Hardiness Zones: Torenia Crustacea is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Torenia Crustacea is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it may occasionally be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause distortion or yellowing of the leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Treat with a miticide or insecticidal soap.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown or black spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Torenia Crustacea is native to coastal areas of eastern and northern Australia, where it grows in wet or marshy areas, such as swamps and riverbanks. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Torenia Crustacea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Torenia Crustacea can be grown in containers as long as the soil is kept moist and the plant is not exposed to direct sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize Torenia Crustacea?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Is Torenia Crustacea a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Torenia Crustacea produces small, tubular flowers that attract butterflies and bees to the garden.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Torenia Crustacea?
A: Torenia Crustacea is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Torenia fournieri
- Torenia hybrida
- Torenia asiatica
References
- “Torenia Crustacea.” Australian National Botanic Gardens. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://anbg.gov.au/gnp/interns-2014/torenia-crustacea.html.
- “Torenia Crustacea.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d184.
- “Torenia.” Gardening Know How. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/torenia/torenia-wishbone-flower.htm.
