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Gnarled Leaves in Torenia

Torenia, more commonly known as wishbone flower, is a lesser known but useful annual in hanging baskets, planters and the landscape. It is a vining flower that is usually disease- and pest-resistant. There are, however, a few diseases that can cause problems with the foliage including gnarled leaves. Proper identification of the disease will ensure that you select the proper treatment.

  1. Fungal Diseases

    • Powdery mildew is the most common fungal disease in annuals.

      Two common fungal diseases that can affect the foliage of Torenia are powdery mildew and Botrytis. Symptoms of both include yellow and curled leaves. The presence of a gray to white powdery substance on both the tops and undersides of leaves indicates the presence of powdery mildew. Both diseases favor a humid environment. Make sure that Torenia receive some sun and get good air circulation to help prevent these diseases. Affected plants can be sprayed with fungicides every seven to 10 days for treatment.

    Viral Diseases

    • Viral symptoms can appear as spots on the leaves.

      There are over 30 different viruses that can infect Torenia. The most common in recent years are impatiens necrotic spot virus and tomato spotted wilt virus. All can show up with slightly different symptoms, but they all affect leaf and stem growth. Plants that show symptoms of gnarled leaves and do not respond to fungal treatments may have a virus. There are no effective treatments for viral diseases in Torenia. Infected plants should be removed and discarded in an area where they are not likely to spread to further infect other plants.

    Insect Pests

    • The presence of ladybugs can indicate aphids.

      Insect pests on Torenia are not as common as disease, but two pests in particular can feed on the leaves, causing distortion or discoloration. Whitefly is an insect pest that sucks the nutrients from the underside of Torenia leaves, giving them a speckled appearance. Aphids also feed by sucking nutrients, leaving behind gnarled or curled leaves. Both insects are easily seen on the plant; if they are not present, the cause is most likely disease.

    Prevention

    • Keep diseases at bay on your Torenia by planting it in the appropriate environment,

      The best way to prevent any kind of diseases in Torenia is to ensure that they are planted in the proper environment and receive care throughout the season. Torenias are shade-tolerant and should not be planted in full sun. They do best in fertile, moist soil. They are drought-tolerant to a point but should be watered regularly. They benefit from a regular fertilization schedule to keep them healthy and lush. Fertilize them every two to four weeks.

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