Impatiens, commonly known as Busy Lizzies, Jewelweeds, or Touch-Me-Nots, belong to the family Balsaminaceae, encompassing a wide array of species that are cherished for their vibrant flowers and ease of cultivation. These plants are predominantly found in the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia, with some species native to North America. The genus Impatiens owes its name to the characteristic way its seeds are dispersed; when ripe, the seed pods explode, scattering seeds far from the parent plant, a behavior that’s both fascinating and functional for the species’ propagation.
The diversity within the Impatiens genus is remarkable, with species varying significantly in size, color, and growth habits. From the shade-loving Impatiens walleriana, which blankets gardens with a spectrum of colors like pink, red, orange, and purple, to the sun-tolerant Impatiens hawkerii or New Guinea Impatiens with its large, flamboyant blooms, impatiens cater to a broad range of gardening styles and conditions. Some species, like Impatiens balsamina, grow taller with a bushier habit, while others like Impatiens repens creep along the ground, making them ideal for different garden roles, including borders, containers, and ground covers.
Ecologically, impatiens play several roles. They are known for attracting pollinators, especially hummingbirds and butterflies, with their nectar-rich flowers, contributing to local biodiversity. However, not all Impatiens species are benign; Impatiens glandulifera, for instance, has become an invasive species in many parts of the world outside its native Himalayas, where it can overrun native flora with its aggressive growth. This dual nature of impatiens as both beneficial and potentially problematic reflects the complexity of introducing plants into new ecosystems.
Cultivation of impatiens is generally straightforward, making them favorites among both novice and experienced gardeners. They prefer moist, well-draining soil, with most species thriving in shade or partial shade, although some, like the New Guinea varieties, can tolerate more sunlight. They are susceptible to diseases like downy mildew, particularly in humid conditions, which has led to the development of disease-resistant cultivars. Propagation can be achieved through seed or cuttings, with many species self-seeding, which adds to their perennial presence in gardens where winters are mild enough. This adaptability, combined with their colorful display, ensures that impatiens remain a go-to choice for adding quick, vibrant color to any garden setting.
Impatiens (Impatiens spp.)
Impatiens walleriana (Busy Lizzie)
This is perhaps the most recognized of the impatiens family, cherished for its ability to thrive in shade. Available in a kaleidoscope of colors from white to hot pink, red, and purple, this species has been a staple in shaded garden beds and containers. Its flowers are single or double, with a flat-faced appearance that brightens up dark corners. It’s an annual in most climates due to its sensitivity to frost but is perennial in frost-free regions.
Impatiens hawkerii (New Guinea Impatiens)
It stands out with its larger, more vibrant flowers and distinctive foliage. Unlike I. walleriana, this species tolerates more sun, making it versatile for various garden settings. The leaves can be variegated or solid, often in shades of green, bronze, or burgundy, adding to the ornamental appeal. Flowers range from soft pastels to bright, bold colors, providing a tropical flair.
Impatiens balsamina (Garden Balsam)
Known for its double-flowered varieties, it blooms in reds, pinks, and whites, often with a camellia-like appearance. This species grows taller, up to 2 feet, and can be a bit gangly, making it ideal for the back of borders or as a cut flower. It’s also one of the few impatiens that can handle full sun to partial shade.
Impatiens capensis (Jewelweed or Spotted Touch-Me-Not)
This is a North American native known for its medicinal properties, especially in treating poison ivy rashes. It produces delicate, yellow flowers with orange spots that attract hummingbirds. This plant thrives in moist soils near water bodies, showcasing how impatiens can be both ornamental and ecologically beneficial.
Impatiens pallida (Pale Jewelweed)
It is closely related to I. capensis but features paler yellow flowers. It shares the same habitat preferences, growing in damp, shaded areas where its seeds can explode upon touch, giving it the “touch-me-not” moniker. It’s less commonly cultivated but valuable in naturalistic or woodland gardens.
Impatiens glandulifera (Himalayan Balsam, Policeman’s Helmet)
Has become notorious for its invasive tendencies in non-native habitats. It’s a tall plant, often reaching 6-10 feet, with showy, pink to purple flowers. While it’s stunning and attracts pollinators, its aggressive spread has led to efforts to control it in many regions outside its native Himalayas.
Impatiens niamniamensis (Congo Cockatoo)
commonly one of the more exotic impatiens, known for its unique, parrot-like flowers that are red with yellow tips. This species requires warmth and high humidity, making it more of a greenhouse or indoor plant in cooler climates. Its striking appearance and less common cultivation make it a conversation piece among plant enthusiasts.
Impatiens repens
This is a charming, ground-covering impatiens with small, violet flowers. It’s less seen in gardens but can be a delightful addition for those looking for something to fill in under taller plants or in rock gardens. Its creeping nature makes it ideal for hanging baskets where it can spill over the edges.
Impatiens omeiana
It offers something different with its foliage, featuring silver variegation on dark green leaves. Native to China, it’s one of the hardier impatiens, able to handle cooler temperatures than others. Its flowers are less showy but still attractive, usually in shades of pink or red, appearing later in the season.
Impatiens balfourii (Poor Man’s Orchid)
It is admired for its orchid-like flowers, which are pinkish-purple with a yellow center. It’s also known for being somewhat invasive, self-seeding readily in the garden. However, its beauty and ease of growth make it a favorite among gardeners looking for a low-maintenance, late-summer bloomer.
Impatiens sodenii
From East Africa brings large, showy flowers in shades of pink or purple, with dark, almost black leaves in some varieties. This impatiens is less common in Western gardens but is sought after for its dramatic color contrast, making it a focal point in mixed plantings.
Impatiens namchabarwensis
This is one of the largest impatiens species, has flowers that can be up to 4 inches wide, showcasing a rare blue color in the plant world. Found in Tibet, it’s a collector’s item due to its size, rarity, and the challenge of cultivation outside its native habitat, requiring very specific conditions to thrive.
Impatiens arguta
Hails from the Himalayas and is notable for its small, white flowers that contrast beautifully with its dark green, glossy foliage. This species prefers cooler, humid conditions and can be a delightful addition to a shaded rock garden or woodland setting where its delicate blooms can be appreciated up close.
Impatiens turrialbana
It is a rare species from Central America, primarily Costa Rica. It’s distinguished by its vibrant yellow flowers that add a burst of color in shaded, moist environments. Its scarcity in cultivation makes it a treasure for collectors of unusual plants, requiring conditions that mimic its tropical origins.
Impatiens usambarensis
From Tanzania, brings large, dark pink flowers that are almost orchid-like in appearance. Its tall growth habit makes it suitable for the back of borders or as a focal point in a garden dedicated to showcasing exotic flora. It thrives in humid conditions with good drainage, typical of its East African origins.
Impatiens hochstetteri
It is another African native, known for its striking red flowers. This species prefers the understory of forests, where it can take advantage of the dappled light. Its cultivation outside its native range is less common, but it’s valued for its vivid blooms in specialized collections.
Impatiens tinctoria
Has small, yellow flowers and is notable for its historical use in dye-making. Found in parts of Asia, this species can be part of a garden that not only looks beautiful but also has a cultural or historical educational aspect. It’s adaptable to various light conditions, provided the soil remains moist.
Impatiens kilimanjari
From the region around Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, features lovely pink flowers. This species is less known in cultivation but offers an opportunity to bring a piece of East African flora into the garden, where it would thrive in conditions that replicate its highland, forested habitat.
Impatiens grandis
From Madagascar is known for its large, showy pink flowers that can add drama to any garden. Its size and the grandeur of its blooms make it a standout in a collection of tropical plants, where it can be grown in containers or in the ground with the right climate.
Impatiens linearifolia
It stands out with its linear, narrow leaves, differing from the more common rounded leaf shapes in the genus. It sports small flowers, often yellow, and is native to parts of Asia. This species can be a unique addition to rockeries or as a ground cover in shaded areas, where its foliage can be appreciated.
Impatiens flaccida
Grows in the Western Ghats of India, showcasing drooping, white flowers. Its preference for moist, shaded areas makes it ideal for underplanting or in container gardens where humidity can be maintained, adding a touch of the exotic with its unique flower presentation.
Impatiens sulcata
With its grooved stems and small, yellow flowers, is another Asian native that can be intriguing in a botanical collection. Its growth habit is somewhat sprawling, making it suitable for borders or as an understory plant where its subtle beauty can be noted.
Impatiens latifolia
It features wide leaves and small, red flowers, offering a contrast in foliage and bloom size. Native to East Asia, this species can thrive in shaded garden spots with moist, well-draining soil, providing both textural and color interest.
Impatiens mirabilis
Another gem from Madagascar, is renowned for its large, spectacular flowers in shades of orange or red. Its cultivation is challenging outside of its native habitat due to its specific needs for warmth and humidity, but for those with the right conditions, it’s a stunning plant that can be a highlight of any tropical garden setup.
General Notes on Cultivation
- Most impatiens species prefer moist, well-drained soil and thrive in shade or partial shade, though some like New Guinea impatiens can handle more sun.
- They are generally grown as annuals in temperate regions due to frost sensitivity, but some are perennials in their tropical or subtropical native environments.
- Impatiens are susceptible to downy mildew, so good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent disease.
- Propagation is often done via seed or stem cuttings, with some species self-seeding in the garden.