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Description
Impatiens Edgeworthii, commonly known as the Himalayan Balsam, is a plant species that belongs to the family Balsaminaceae. This plant is native to the Himalayas and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It typically features soft, fleshy stems and leaves, and produces vivid pink or purple flowers that bloom from mid-summer to mid-autumn.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Balsaminaceae |
| Genus | Impatiens |
Appearance
The Impatiens Edgeworthii boasts soft, fleshy stems that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. The plant’s leaves are also fleshy and are typically ovate or lanceolate in shape. The flowers of this species are the highlight of its appearance, as they come in shades of pink or purple and feature a unique shape that resembles a horned helmet. These blooms are typically 3-4 cm in length and have five petals that form a tube with a spur at the end.
Care Guide
The Impatiens Edgeworthii is a relatively low-maintenance plant that thrives in partial to full shade. Here are some tips to help you care for this plant:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: The Impatiens Edgeworthii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial to full shade and does not tolerate direct sunlight for extended periods.
- Hardiness Zones: The Impatiens Edgeworthii can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 7-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Impatiens Edgeworthii is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause distortion and yellowing of the plant’s leaves.
- Whiteflies: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the plant’s leaves.
- Botrytis Blight: This fungal disease can cause yellowing and wilting of the plant’s leaves, as well as the development of gray mold on the plant’s stems and flowers.
- Verticillium Wilt: This fungal disease can cause yellowing and wilting of the plant’s leaves, as well as stunted growth and the development of brown streaks on the plant’s stems.
Habitat
The Impatiens Edgeworthii is native to the Himalayas, where it grows in moist, shady areas such as forest clearings and along riverbanks. This plant has also been introduced to other areas of the world, including Europe and North America, where it is grown as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Impatiens Edgeworthii an annual or perennial plant?
A: The Impatiens Edgeworthii is a perennial plant that can live for several years if cared for properly.
Q: Can the Impatiens Edgeworthii be grown indoors?
A: While the Impatiens Edgeworthii prefers to grow outdoors in partial to full shade, it can be grown indoors as long as it receives enough light and moisture.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Impatiens Edgeworthii?
A: Feed your Impatiens Edgeworthii with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Does the Impatiens Edgeworthii attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the Impatiens Edgeworthii is known to attract hummingbirds and butterflies with its brightly-colored flowers.
Related Plants
- Impatiens Balsamina
- Impatiens Capensis
- Impatiens Noli-tangere
References
- Flowers of India. (n.d.). Impatiens edgeworthii. Retrieved from http://www.flowersofindia.net/catalog/slides/Himalayan%20Balsam.html
- RHS. (n.d.). Impatiens edgeworthii. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/20315/Impatiens-edgeworthii/Details
- The Spruce. (n.d.). How to Grow and Care for Impatiens Flowers. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/grow-impatiens-flowers-1315737
