Impatiens

Impatiens (Impatiens walleriana) is a popular flowering annual plant known for its brightly colored, large and showy flowers. They come in a wide variety of colors including pink, red, purple, white, and orange. The flowers are typically 2-3 inches in diameter and are arranged on long, delicate stems. The leaves of the plant are green, glossy and oval shaped.

Impatiens plants are easy to grow and are suitable for both indoor and outdoor gardening. They thrive in shade and moist soil, making them a great choice for areas of the garden that receive little direct sunlight. They can be planted from seeds or seedlings and they are often used as bedding plants, in hanging baskets, and in containers. They are also used as groundcover plants and they are known for their long blooming period, which can last from spring to fall.

Impatiens plants have a compact, bushy habit and typically grow to be around 12-18 inches tall and wide. They are relatively low maintenance and require regular watering and fertilization. They are also relatively disease and pest resistant, making them a great choice for beginners.

It’s important to note that in recent years, a soil-borne fungus called impatiens downy mildew has been affecting the health of impatiens plants. This fungus can cause the leaves to turn yellow and the plant to wilt, eventually leading to death. Gardeners should pay attention to this issue and take appropriate measures to prevent it.