Contents
Description
Impatiens Parviflora, commonly known as small balsam, is a flowering plant belonging to the Balsaminaceae family. It is an annual herbaceous plant that grows up to 1 meter tall. The plant has a hollow stem that bears alternate leaves with toothed margins. The leaves are ovate-lanceolate, up to 9 cm long and 3 cm wide, and have a pointed tip.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Balsaminaceae |
| Genus | Impatiens |
Appearance
Impatiens Parviflora produces small, showy flowers that are pinkish-purple in color. The flowers are about 1 cm in diameter and have five petals. They are borne in the axils of the leaves and have a spur at the base. The fruit of the plant is a capsule that explodes when touched, dispersing the seeds.
Care Guide
Impatiens Parviflora requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. The plant prefers partial shade to full shade and can be grown in hardiness zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Common pests that affect Impatiens Parviflora include spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. Diseases that affect the plant include powdery mildew and downy mildew. To prevent pest and disease problems, ensure proper watering and fertilization, and remove any infected plant parts immediately.
Habitat
Impatiens Parviflora is native to Europe and Asia but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America. It grows in damp, shaded areas such as woodlands, riverbanks, and ditches.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Impatiens Parviflora poisonous?
A: No, the plant is not poisonous but is not typically consumed by humans or animals.
Q: Can Impatiens Parviflora be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a bright, shaded location with high humidity.
Q: How often should Impatiens Parviflora be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the best time to plant Impatiens Parviflora?
A: The plant can be planted in the spring after the last frost or in the fall before the first frost.
Related Plants
- Impatiens Balsamina
- Impatiens Capensis
- Impatiens Hawkeri
- Impatiens Walleriana
References
- “Impatiens parviflora DC.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 26 May 2021. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:60420134-2.
- “Impatiens parviflora.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 26 May 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278114&isprofile=0&.
- “Small Balsam (Impatiens parviflora).” Minnesota Wildflowers. Accessed 26 May 2021. https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/flower/small-balsam.
