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Description
Impatiens Furcillata, commonly known as the forked impatiens, is a perennial plant species from the family Balsaminaceae. The plant is native to the tropical regions of Africa, specifically in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Balsaminaceae |
| Genus | Impatiens |
Appearance
The Impatiens Furcillata plant features thick stems with dark green leaves that are typically lance-shaped and serrated on the edges. The flowers of the plant are trumpet-shaped and come in various colors, including pink, red, and white. These blooms are about 2.5 centimeters in length and have a spur that is forked at the end, hence the name “forked impatiens.”
Care Guide
Impatiens Furcillata is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly and deeply to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Impatiens Furcillata prefers partial to full shade but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant thrives in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Impatiens Furcillata is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These are small insects that suck the sap out of the plant and can cause wilting and deformation of the leaves.
- Spider Mites: These are tiny arachnids that can cause yellowing of the leaves and the formation of webbing.
- Downy Mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves.
Habitat
Impatiens Furcillata is typically found growing in tropical forests and along stream banks in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda. The plant prefers moist soil and partial to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Impatiens Furcillata an annual or perennial plant?
A: Impatiens Furcillata is a perennial plant.
Q: What is the best soil for Impatiens Furcillata?
A: Impatiens Furcillata prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: Can Impatiens Furcillata tolerate direct sunlight?
A: Impatiens Furcillata prefers partial to full shade but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Q: What are the common pests that affect Impatiens Furcillata?
A: The common pests that affect Impatiens Furcillata include aphids and spider mites.
Related Plants
- Impatiens balsamina
- Impatiens capensis
- Impatiens niamniamensis
References
- “Impatiens Furcillata.” Plantz Africa. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 18 February 2021.
- “Impatiens Furcillata.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. The Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, n.d. Web. 18 February 2021.
