Impatiens balsamina
Garden Balsam
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Garden Balsam (Impatiens balsamina) - Description
Impatiens balsamina (garden balsam, garden jewelweed, rose balsam, touch-me-not) is a species of Impatiens native to southern Asia in India and Burma. Other common names include ‘elepe in Hawaiian, mírame lindo in Spanish, and kamantigi in Chamorro. It is an annual plant growing to 20–75 cm tall, with a thick, but soft stem.
Garden Balsam (Impatiens balsamina) - Blooming
Spurred, asymmetrical flowers. Five petals, but lower petals on each flower are fused. These ornamental flowers come in a wide range of colors, usually warm, but sometimes even lavender or violet.
Garden Balsam (Impatiens balsamina) - Growth
Annuals, perennials and subshrubs with brittle, succulent stems and fleshy leaves. Seeds are contained in an explosive capsule that flings seeds in all directions when touched. Visited by hummingbirds.
Garden Balsam (Impatiens balsamina) - Planting
Sow seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost, germination in 2-3 weeks at 70-75°F (21-24°C). Just press seeds into soil surface. Water only from below and keep humid by covering with plastic. Do not set in sun when covered. Transplant when nighttime temperatures are over 50°F (21-24°C). Perennials are easy to propagate by cuttings taken in spring or summer.
Garden Balsam (Impatiens balsamina) - Pest
Impatiens are susceptible to spider mites, snails, and slugs. If these pests do any damage to the plant, simply prune the damaged area.
Garden Balsam (Impatiens balsamina) - Interesting facts
The names Impatiens and Touch-Me-Not refer to the seed pods' explosive and abrupt opening of the fruit when touched. I. capensis, commonly known as Jewelweed, is a folk remedy for poison ivy, but there is no scientific proof of its effectiveness.
Garden Balsam (Impatiens balsamina) - Soil and irrigation
Evenly moist, well-drained soil. The stems will wilt when they do not receive enough water. When grown in containers or under trees, they will need more water than usual.
