Impatiens, best known as Busy Lizzie, is a popular bedding plant that excels in shady spots. Its profusion of blooms in a variety of colors provides long-lasting, vibrant accents in gardens and balconies.
Impatiens (Balsam)
Description:
Impatiens, known as balsam in Dutch, is a genus of flowering plants especially loved for their colorful flowers and ease of care. These plants are popular in gardens, window boxes, and as houseplants. They typically bloom from late spring to fall, producing vibrant colors such as red, pink, white, purple, and orange.
Features:
Flowers: Large, colorful, and often trumpet-shaped or flat depending on the species.
Leaves: Glossy, dark green, oval or lance-shaped with a smooth texture.
Size: Can vary from low groundcovers of 15–30 cm to larger species of 50–100 cm tall.
Growth habit: Mostly annuals, some species are perennial in warmer climates.
Care:
Light: Bright, indirect light; some varieties tolerate light shade.
Water: Water regularly, the soil should be moist but not soggy.
Soil: Well-drained, humus-rich soil.
Temperature: Protect from frost; grows best in moderate temperatures.
Maintenance: Remove wilted flowers to encourage continued flowering.
Special features:
Impatiens is also known as the "impatient plant" because the seeds literally "jump" when they ripen and the seed pod is touched. This is an interesting phenomenon that promotes the plant's natural propagation.
Impatiens grows best in bright, indirect light or light shade. Direct, bright sunlight can burn the leaves.
Keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid waterlogged conditions. Regular checking is sufficient.
Yes, Impatiens is suitable for borders, flower boxes and patios, but protect the plants from frost.
