Impatiens

Balsam, Touch-Me-Not
Balsaminaceae
Annuals, Perennials

Of many hundreds of species,m only a few are usually seen in gardens.Most of these are annuals or tender perennials treated as annuals; all are valuable for long summer bloom.When lightly touched, ripe seed capsules burst open and scatter seeds.

Impatiens New Guinea hybrid

A varied group of striking perennials usually grown as annuals; they were developed from a number of species native to New Guinea, especially Impatiens hawkeri (Impatiens schlechteri). Plants can be upright to spreading; most are 1 to 2 ft. tall and as wide or wider. Leaves are typically large, often variegated with cream or red. Flowers usually large (3 in. wide) though not profuse, held well above foliage; colors include lavender, purple, pink, red, orange, and white. Once considered primarily pot plants, they may also be grown in the open ground; provide ample fertilizer and give somewhat more sun than you would common impatiens (Impatiens wallerana).

Impatiens wallerana

Usually grown as an annual evereywhere, this is one of the best bedding plants for shade. Rapid, vigorous growth; tall types to about 2 ft. high, dwarf kinds 6–12 in. high. Narrow, glossy dark green, 1 to 3-in.-long leaves grow from juicy, pale green stems. Flowers are 1 to 2 in.wide, come in all colors but yellow and true blue. All types are useful for many months of bright color in partial or full shade. Grow plants from seed or cuttings; or buy them in cell-packs or pots.

'Jungle Gold'

African. Dense, bushy plant to 1 1/2 ft. high and wide, with glossy, bright green leaves that are oval, pointed, and up to 6 in. long; leaf margins are serrated and toothed. Intricate orchidlike blooms to 1 in. long are rich golden, throats marked in red. Give shade and regularapplications of balanced fertilizer for profuse bloom over a long period in summer. Superb in containers.