Impatiens
Impatiens spp.
Also known as
Jewelweed, Touch-Me-Not, Snapweed, Patience, Busy Lizzie, Balsam, Patience plant
Photo by raspberry_caper (All rights reserved)
Full Sun
Easy care
Moderate watering
Tender
7a-12b
USDA zone
-18°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
30cm | Max | 30cm |
20cm | Min | 20cm |
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
This plant has no fragrance
More images of Impatiens
Impatiens Overview
These cheerful-looking annuals or perennials are the most popular bedding plants in the world and a bright little flower that can light up any dark and shady part of the garden. Species are typically found in damp habitats, in tropical and warm temperate regions, except in Australia, New Zealand and South America. When growing, drought stress causes the most damage to Impatiens, so it's vital to provide regular water.
Common problems with Impatiens
Leaf Spot, reduce humidity and maintain good air circulation. Powdery Mildew (especially with New Guinea impatiens). To prevent diseases, pot in pasteurized, pathogen-free media and do not take cuttings from infected plants.
How to harvest Impatiens
Harvest seeds when impatiens flowers once the blossoms begin to wilt. Place a cheesecloth bag over each developing seed pod. Tie the bag opening around the stem with a piece of thread. The ripened seeds will drop off the flower and into the bag.
How to propagate Impatiens
Cuttings
Choose a non-flowering stem with at least two leaf nodes and cut 7-10cm long just below a node. Insert the cutting in a sandy potting and keep moist or place in a glass of water until roots grow and plant carefully.
Seed
Place two seeds on top of the soil and sprinkle a light dusting of compost over them. Mist the top of the cells with clear water. Cover the cells with plastic to keep in moist. It's a slow process!
Special features of Impatiens
Pot plant
Inpatiens make excellent container plants and great for hanging baskets, as long as they are placed in cool, shaded areas where they will not dry out too fast.
Attractive flowers
Other uses of Impatiens
Mixed bed, shade, border, containers.
