Wishbone flower care guide

Pets and children

We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.

How often to water Wishbone flower

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)

Every 2 days

It wilts as soon as it dries, so as a guide water thoroughly whenever the topsoil is dry, checking pots morning and evening in midsummer.

Autumn (Oct–Nov)

Every 3 days

Flowering continues in fall; with slower drying, about every two or three days once the surface dries is the guide.

Winter (Dec–Feb)

Every 7 days

Generally an annual that dies at frost; plants kept indoors get sparing water a few days after the soil dries.

Light and placement for Wishbone flower

It grows from full sun to bright partial shade, as a guide; midsummer sun scorches leaves and dries pots fast, so afternoon shade or a bright balcony suits it.

Overwintering Wishbone flower

Overwintering guide: 5°C (41°F) or above

Cold-tender and usually cleared away at the end of fall; it often self-seeds for next year, and to keep a plant hold it indoors above about 5°C.

Fertilizing and repotting Wishbone flower

Fertilizer

Slow-release fertilizer at planting and liquid feed about every two weeks while in bloom, easing off if the plant flags in midsummer heat.

When to repot

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)

Common problems with Wishbone flower

• Drying out in midsummer wilts the leaves and damages the plant.
• Harsh direct sun scorches the leaves and reduces flowering.
• Overgrown stems left untrimmed make the base stuffy and rot-prone.

Tips for growing Wishbone flower

• Cutting back by about half when leggy brings another bloom as it cools.
• It blooms even in partial shade, so it suits balconies with weak sun.
• Seed dropped in fall may sprout the next early summer if left in place.

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