Impatiens is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Balsaminaceae. These plants are commonly known as touch-me-nots, snapweeds, or jewelweeds due to their unique ability to disperse their seeds explosively when touched. The Impatiens genus consists of more than 1,000 species, which are mostly found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. In this article, we will discuss the characteristics, cultivation, and uses of Impatiens plants.
Characteristics Of Impatiens Plants
You may grow impatiens plants from seeds or cuttings. They have a succulent stem and leaves, which can be simple or compound. The flowers are five-petaled, have a spur at the base, and come in a range of colors such as white, pink, red, orange, and purple. The fruits are capsules that contain numerous seeds, which are dispersed explosively when touched, earning the plant its common name “touch-me-not.”
Cultivation Of Impatiens Plants
Cuttings or seeds can be used to grow impatiens plants. They prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and thrives in partial to full shade. These plants are known for their ability to withstand moisture stress and can tolerate both drought and flooding. However, they do require regular watering during the growing season to maintain healthy growth.
Plants for impatiens can be grown from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in the spring, and cuttings can be taken in the summer. To propagate from cuttings, choose healthy shoots that are approximately 7–10 cm long, remove the lower leaves, and place the cuttings in a rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a well-drained soil mixture and keep them in a warm, bright place until they take root.
Uses Of Impatiens Plants
Impatiens plants have several uses in landscaping and medicine. These plants are commonly used in flower beds, hanging baskets, and containers due to their colorful and long-lasting flowers. They can also be used as ground covers, borders, and edging plants. Impatiens plants are a popular choice for shade gardens, where few other plants will thrive.
In traditional medicine, Impatiens plants have been used to treat a variety of ailments such as skin irritations, insect bites, and digestive issues. The plant’s sap is also used topically to treat warts, calluses, and corns. In some cultures, the leaves and stems are consumed as vegetables or added to soups and stews.
In conclusion, impatiens plants are an attractive and low-maintenance option for gardeners looking for a splash of color in their shade gardens. These plants are easy to grow and have several uses in both landscaping and medicine. Whether you are looking to add a pop of color to your garden or treat a minor ailment, impatiens plants are an excellent choice.
Here are the 29 Most Popular Types Of Impatiens Pictorial Guide:
- Characteristics Of Impatiens Plants
- Cultivation Of Impatiens Plants
- Uses Of Impatiens Plants
- Impatiens Irvingii
- Impatiens Alba
- Impatiens Bequaertii
- Impatiens Ceratophora
- Impatiens Stenantha
- Impatiens Sylvicola
- Impatiens Pulchra
- Impatiens Apiculata
- Impatiens Pseudoviola
- Impatiens Hians
- Impatiens Acaulis
- Impatiens Lawii
- Impatiens Arguta
- Impatiens Sodenii
- Impatiens Kilimanjari
- Impatiens Edgeworthii
- Impatiens Repens
- Impatiens Hawkeri
- Impatiens Niamniamensis
- Impatiens Namchabarwensis
- Impatiens Scabrida
- Impatiens Parviflora
- Impatiens Tinctoria
- Impatiens Omeiana
- Impatiens Noli-Tangere
- Impatiens Capensis
- Impatiens Glandulifera
- Impatiens Walleriana
- Impatiens Balsamina
- How To Grow And Care For Impatiens
- How To Propagate Impatiens
- Propagation By Stem Cuttings:
- Propagation By Division:
- Top 5 FAQ And Answers For Impatiens
- Top 10 Interesting Facts About Impatiens
Impatiens Irvingii
Impatiens Irvingii is a type of flowering plant that belongs to the Balsaminaceae family. It is native to tropical Africa and is commonly known as the giant balsam due to its large size, reaching up to 2 meters in height. The plant produces showy pink flowers with yellow markings and has attractive foliage, making it a popular ornamental plant in gardens and parks. Medical tradition also makes use of it for a number of illnesses. However, the species is considered vulnerable due to habitat loss and over-collection for medicinal purposes.
Impatiens Alba
Impatiens Alba is a species of flowering plant in the family Balsaminaceae, native to tropical Africa. It is commonly known as white jewelweed and produces white or cream-colored flowers with a distinctive spur. The plant is often grown as an ornamental in gardens and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Impatiens Bequaertii
Impatiens Bequaertii is a species of flowering plant in the family Balsaminaceae, native to Central Africa. It is a perennial herb that can grow up to 2 meters tall and is known for its showy yellow flowers with red spots. The species is endangered due to habitat loss and overharvesting for medicinal use.
Impatiens Ceratophora
Impatiens Ceratophora is a species of flowering plant in the family Balsaminaceae. It is native to the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia and is characterized by its distinctive horn-shaped nectar spurs and brightly colored flowers, which range from pale pink to deep purple. The plant is often found growing in shady areas near streams or on rocky slopes, and it is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments. However, its habitat is threatened due to deforestation and habitat loss.
Impatiens Stenantha
Impatiens Stenantha is a species of flowering plant in the family Balsaminaceae, native to the eastern Himalayas and southwestern China. It is an herbaceous perennial that typically grows in moist, shady areas and produces clusters of delicate white and pink flowers in the summer. The species is known for its narrow leaves and long, thin seed pods that burst open when touched, scattering seeds over a wide area. Impatiens stenantha is cultivated as an ornamental plant and is popular in gardens and as a houseplant.
Impatiens Sylvicola
Impatiens Sylvicola is a species of flowering plant in the family Balsaminaceae. It is a perennial herb found in the forests of the eastern Himalayas and adjacent regions, with attractive yellow flowers that bloom in summer. It is commonly known as forest balsam or Himalayan balsam.
Impatiens Pulchra
Impatiens Pulchra is a species of flowering plant in the family Balsaminaceae, native to Madagascar. It is a perennial herb that grows up to 60 cm tall and has yellow and red flowers that bloom from July to September. The plant prefers moist soil and partial shade and is often cultivated as an ornamental plant.
Impatiens Apiculata
Impatiens Apiculata is a species of flowering plant belonging to the family Balsaminaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia and is typically found in shady areas of forests or along streams. The plant produces small, white or pale pink flowers with a spur at the base and has green, toothed leaves. It is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage and delicate flowers.
Impatiens Pseudoviola
Impatiens Pseudoviola is a species of flowering plant in the family Balsaminaceae, native to the mountains of central China. It typically grows to a height of 15-20 cm and produces small, delicate flowers with pale violet to white petals and yellow centers. It prefers cool, moist environments and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant. However, it is also listed as a critically endangered species in its native habitat due to habitat loss and over-collection for horticultural purposes.
Impatiens Hians
Impatiens Hians, commonly known as “Gaping Balsam,” is a species of flowering plant in the family Balsaminaceae. It is native to the eastern Himalayas and southwestern China, where it grows in forest understories and along stream banks. The plant produces small, delicate, white to pinkish-purple flowers that bloom in summer and fall. It is valued for its ornamental qualities and is often cultivated as a garden plant. However, the species is also threatened in the wild due to habitat loss and over-collection for horticultural purposes.
Impatiens Acaulis
Impatiens Acaulis is a species of flowering plant commonly known as the Dwarf Impatiens. It is an herbaceous perennial that typically grows to a height of 10–15 cm and produces attractive pink, purple, or white flowers from late spring to early fall. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade, making it an ideal choice for rock gardens, borders, and containers. It is native to East Africa but has been widely cultivated as an ornamental plant around the world.
Impatiens Lawii
Impatiens Lawii is a species of flowering plant in the family Balsaminaceae. It is native to the Indian state of Kerala and is found in moist, shady areas of the Western Ghats mountain range. The plant produces attractive yellow flowers with purple spots and has medicinal properties in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. The species is currently classified as endangered due to habitat loss and overexploitation.
Impatiens Arguta
Impatiens Arguta is a species of flowering plant in the family Balsaminaceae, native to East Africa. It is a perennial herbaceous plant that typically grows up to 1 meter in height and produces pale yellow flowers with purple markings on the lower lip. The plant prefers moist, shady conditions and is commonly found in forest understories and along stream banks. It is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and is often used as a bedding plant or in hanging baskets.
Impatiens Sodenii
Impatiens Sodeniiis a member of the Balsaminaceae family of flowering plants. It is commonly known as the “Soden’s touch-me-not” or “porcelain flower” and is native to Tanzania and Kenya. The plant typically grows up to 1 meter tall and features bright pink, bell-shaped flowers with yellow centers. It prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil and is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a houseplant.
Impatiens Kilimanjari
Impatiens Kilimanjari is a species of flowering plant native to Tanzania, specifically the Kilimanjaro region. It is a member of the Impatiens genus, commonly known as the touch-me-not family, and is characterized by its small white flowers with pinkish-purple spots and its elongated seed pods that burst open when touched, dispersing the seeds. The species is typically found in moist, shaded areas and is often cultivated as an ornamental plant.
Impatiens Edgeworthii
Impatiens Edgeworthii is a species of flowering plant in the family Balsaminaceae, native to the Himalayas and southwestern China. It is an herbaceous perennial that typically grows up to 30cm tall and produces pale pink to white flowers with yellow centers in the summer and fall. The plant needs moist, well-drained soil, some shade, but not direct sunlight. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments.
Impatiens Repens
Impatiens Repens, A species of flowering plant belonging to the Balsaminaceae family is known as creeping touch-me-not or creeping balsam. It is a low-growing herbaceous perennial that is native to the Himalayan region but is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in many parts of the world. The plant produces small, delicate, pale pink to white flowers that bloom in the summer and fall. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade and is often used as a ground cover or in container gardens.
Impatiens Hawkeri
Impatiens Hawkeri is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Balsaminaceae. It is commonly known as the New Guinea impatiens and is native to Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. The plant is prized for its showy and colorful flowers, which come in shades of pink, red, orange, and white, and its ability to thrive in shaded or partially shaded environments. It is frequently used as a houseplant and as a decorative plant in gardens.
Impatiens Niamniamensis
Impatiens Niamniamensis is a species of flowering plant native to tropical Africa, commonly known as the Congo cockatoo or parrot plant. It is characterized by its showy, bright orange-red flowers that resemble a parrot’s beak and its tall, upright growth habit. This species is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and is valued for its striking appearance and ease of care.
Impatiens Namchabarwensis
Impatiens Namchabarwensis is a rare and beautiful species of flowering plant native to the Himalayas, specifically found in the Namcha Barwa region of Tibet. It is a delicate herbaceous plant with pink and white flowers that bloom in late summer and early autumn. This species is highly sought-after by plant collectors and enthusiasts due to its rarity and unique beauty.
Impatiens Scabrida
Impatiens Scabrida is a species of flowering plant in the family Balsaminaceae. It is native to tropical East Africa and Madagascar. The plant produces small yellow flowers with reddish-brown spots and has hairy, rough-textured leaves. It typically grows in moist, shaded areas such as forest floors and along stream banks.
Impatiens Parviflora
Impatiens Parviflora is a species of flowering plant in the Balsaminaceae family, commonly known as Small Balsam or Small-Flowered Touch-me-Not. It is native to Europe and Asia but has been introduced and become invasive in other parts of the world. The plant typically grows in moist, shady areas and produces small yellow flowers. It is often considered a weed due to its ability to quickly spread and dominate natural habitats.
Impatiens Tinctoria
Impatiens Tinctoria is a species of flowering plant in the family Balsaminaceae, native to tropical East Africa. It is a perennial herb with long, narrow leaves and clusters of showy, orange-yellow flowers that bloom throughout the year. The plant is commonly known as “touch-me-not” due to its sensitive seed capsules that burst open when touched. It is also used for its medicinal properties in traditional African medicine.
Impatiens Omeiana
Impatiens Omeiana is a type of flowering plant that belongs to the Balsaminaceae family. It is native to China and is commonly known as Omei Impatiens or Blue Diamond Impatiens. This plant typically grows to a height of 30-60cm and produces striking blue-green foliage with pale yellow flowers that bloom in the summer. It is a well-liked garden decorative for shaded areas and has also been employed in conventional Chinese medicine. The species is threatened in its native habitat due to habitat loss and over-harvesting.
Impatiens Noli-Tangere
Impatiens Noli-Tangere, commonly known as Touch-me-Not Balsam or Western Balsam, is a herbaceous annual plant that belongs to the family Balsaminaceae. It is native to Europe and Western Asia and is characterized by its yellow flowers with reddish veins and explosive seed pods. The plant prefers moist soils and can be found in damp meadows, woodland edges, and along stream banks.
Impatiens Capensis
Impatiens Capensis, commonly known as Orange Jewelweed or Spotted Touch-me-not, is a flowering plant species native to North America. It typically grows in moist, shady areas and is recognizable by its vibrant orange flowers and long, narrow leaves. The plant has been used for various medicinal purposes by indigenous peoples, and its seeds are known to explode when touched, hence the nickname “touch-me-not.”
Impatiens Glandulifera
Impatiens Glandulifera, also known as Himalayan Balsam or Indian Balsam, is an invasive plant species native to the Himalayan region of South Asia. It is a tall annual plant that can grow up to 3 meters high and has distinctive pink or purple flowers. Its ability to grow rapidly and produce large amounts of seeds has led to its widespread introduction and colonization in many parts of the world, where it can cause ecological and economic damage.
Impatiens Walleriana
Impatiens Walleriana is a species of flowering plant commonly known as Busy Lizzie or Balsam. It is native to East Africa but is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in many parts of the world due to its vibrant and colorful flowers. The plant is a popular choice for garden beds, borders, and hanging baskets, and is known for its ability to thrive in shady or partially shaded areas.
Impatiens Balsamina
Impatiens Balsamina, commonly known as Balsam or Garden Balsam, is an annual flowering plant native to South Asia. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant for its colorful and showy flowers, which range from white to pink, red, and purple. The plant prefers moist soil and partial shade and can grow up to 2 feet tall. Impatiens balsamina is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments.
How To Grow And Care For Impatiens
Impatiens are beautiful and colorful flowering plants that are easy to grow and care for. Here are some tips to help you grow and care for impatiens:
- Choose the right location: Impatiens prefer partial shade to full shade, so choose a location that provides them with some shade during the hottest part of the day.
- Soil: Impatiens prefer moist, well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy, mix in some compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.
- Watering: Impatiens like to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Constantly water them, especially in the hot, dry season.
- Fertilizer: Impatiens are heavy feeders and will benefit from regular fertilization. A suitable fertilizer should be applied once every month during the growing season.
- Pruning: Impatiens benefit from regular pruning to encourage bushy growth and to remove dead or damaged foliage. Pinch back the tips of the plant and any long, leggy stems.
- Pests and Diseases: Impatiens are susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and fungal diseases. Watch for any indications of infestation and take immediate action to treat with the proper insecticide or fungicide.
- Winter Care: In colder climates, impatiens are usually grown as annuals and will not survive the winter. If you want to save them for next year, take cuttings in the fall and overwinter them indoors.
By following these tips, you can enjoy beautiful impatiens in your garden or containers throughout the growing season.
How To Propagate Impatiens
Impatiens are a popular garden plant that produces vibrant, colorful blooms. Propagating impatiens can be done by taking stem cuttings or by dividing the root ball of an established plant. Each strategy’s stages are as follows:
Propagation By Stem Cuttings:
- Choose a healthy, mature Impatiens plant to take cuttings from. The plant should have several stems and be in good health.
- Just below a leaf node, cut a stem from the parent plant that is 3–4 inches long. Eliminate any remaining leaves from the cutting’s bottom half.
- Dip the cut end of the stem into the powdered rooting hormone.
- Insert the cutting into a pot with wet potting soil. To produce a greenhouse-like climate, cover the pot with a plastic bag.
- Put the pot in a spot that is bright but not direct.
- Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The emergence of roots should happen after a few weeks.
- Once the new plant is established with healthy roots, it can be transplanted into its own pot or into the ground.
Propagation By Division:
- Choose a healthy, mature Impatiens plant that has several stems and is in good health.
- Take the plant with care from the ground or its container.
- Divide the roots and stems into numerous smaller pieces using gentle pressure. There should be separate stems and roots for each segment.
- Repot each new section in its own pot or replant in the ground.
- Water the new plants and keep them in a bright but indirect location.
- The new plants should start to grow and produce blooms in a few weeks.
- Be sure to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as too much water can lead to root rot.
- Fertilize the new plants with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and blooming.
- As the new plants mature, they may need to be repotted or divided again to prevent overcrowding.
- Enjoy your newly propagated impatiens and the beautiful blooms they produce!
Top 5 FAQ And Answers For Impatiens
Q: What is impatiens, and how do I care for it?
A: Impatiens is a popular annual plant with bright, colorful blooms that thrives in shaded areas. It requires well-draining soil, regular watering, and fertilization every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Impatiens also benefit from regular deadheading to encourage continuous blooming.
Q: How do I propagate Impatiens?
A: Impatiens can be propagated through stem cuttings or by dividing the plant. For stem cuttings, take a cutting from the tip of the stem, remove the lower leaves, and plant in moist soil. For dividing, gently dig up the plant and separate it into smaller sections, being careful to keep the roots intact.
Q: What are some typical illnesses and pests that damage impatiens?
A: Impatiens are susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Regular monitoring and prompt treatment with insecticides or fungicides can help prevent these issues.
Top 5 FAQ And Answers For Impatiens
Q: Can Impatiens be grown in containers?
A: Yes, impatiens can be grown in containers, making them a great choice for small spaces or balconies. Make sure to choose a container with good drainage and use a high-quality potting mix. Regular watering and fertilization are also important for container-grown impatiens.
Q: When should I plant impatiens?
A: Impatiens are typically planted in the spring, after the last frost date in your area. In locations with moderate winters, they can also be planted in the fall. It’s important to avoid planting impatiens in the hot summer months, as they prefer cooler temperatures and may struggle in the heat.
Top 10 Interesting Facts About Impatiens
- Impatiens are flowering plants that are commonly known as “busy Lizzies” or “touch-me-nots.”
- They belong to the family Balsaminaceae, which includes around 1,000 species of plants.
- Impatiens is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and America.
- The flowers of Impatiens come in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, white, and purple.
- The name Impatiens comes from the Latin word “impatiens,” which means impatient or restless, referring to the plant’s explosive seed pods.
- Impatiens are popular ornamental plants, and many cultivars have been developed for garden use.
- Impatiens is also used in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments, including fever, diarrhea, and skin problems.
- Some species of Impatiens are considered invasive in certain areas, and they can outcompete native plants and disrupt local ecosystems.
- Impatiens are popular with hummingbirds and butterflies, making them a great choice for gardeners who want to attract these pollinators.
- Impatiens have been the subject of scientific research, and their unique properties have been studied for their potential medical and industrial uses.