Overview
Impatiens abyssinica Hook.f. is a plant species that belongs to the family Balsaminaceae. It is commonly found in tropical Africa, specifically in countries such as Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Appearance
The plant typically grows up to 1-2 meters in height, and it has a slender stem with succulent and hairless leaves. The leaves are asymmetrical, with one side being slightly larger than the other. The flowers are pink or white, and they bloom profusely throughout the year.
Common Names
Impatiens abyssinica Hook.f. is commonly known by different names in different regions. In Ethiopia, it is called "Addis Ababa balsam" or "Geeze balsam." In Kenya, it is referred to as "African touch-me-not" or "Kenya balsam." In Uganda, it is known as "Uganda touch-me-not" or "Linda."
Uses
Impatiens abyssinica Hook.f. has medicinal properties and is used in traditional African medicine to treat various ailments. The leaves and stem of the plant are used to make decoctions for treating fever, dysentery, and respiratory infections. The sap is used to treat skin infections and wounds. It has also been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Moreover, the plant has ornamental value due to its beautiful flowers, and it is commonly cultivated in gardens and parks as an ornamental plant.
Light Requirements
The Impatiens abyssinica Hook.f. prefers moderate to low levels of sunlight and can tolerate some shade. When grown indoors, it requires bright but indirect light or a well-lit room with a north-facing window. It is important to avoid direct sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day as the leaves can burn and wilt.
Temperature Requirements
The Impatiens abyssinica Hook.f. is a tropical plant that prefers warm temperatures between 18-27°C. It cannot tolerate temperatures below 15°C or above 32°C, as this can cause stress and affect its growth. If grown indoors, it is important to keep the temperature constant and avoid exposing the plant to cold drafts or sudden temperature changes.
Soil Requirements
The Impatiens abyssinica Hook.f. prefers moist, well-draining soil with a pH level between 5.5 and 6.5. It requires soil that is rich in organic matter and nutrients, and can benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season. A good potting mix can be prepared by combining equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite, with some added compost or slow-release fertilizer.
When planting in a garden, it is important to till the soil to a depth of 15-20cm and incorporate some organic matter, such as compost or aged manure. The plant should be placed in a well-drained location, as it cannot tolerate waterlogged soils.
Cultivation Methods
Impatiens abyssinica Hook.f. is a semi-woody perennial shrub that thrives in a shaded environment. It requires well-draining soil and regular watering to maintain high levels of abundant growth. The recommended planting season for this plant is in early spring, ensuring the soil is warm and moist and has good air circulation around it.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering, and it's essential to ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be detrimental to the plant's overall health. In summer, the plant needs more water than in winter when it goes dormant. When watering, it is advisable to apply water directly to the roots rather than sprinkling the leaves and flowers.
Fertilization
The plant responds well to regular fertilization. It is best to feed the plant every two weeks during the growing season, which spans from March to October. Organic fertilizers are recommended because they provide slow-release nutrients that the plant can absorb without causing any harm. The plant's growth rate and coloration will be enhanced with the use of the right fertilizer.
Pruning
Impatiens abyssinica Hook.f. requires little pruning during its growth period. Once flowering is complete, it is advisable to prune back the plant by removing the dead and infected stems and leaves. Pruning will promote fresh growth and improve the plant's overall health. Regular pruning will ensure that the plant maintains its shape and size, making it easier to manage.
Propagation of Impatiens abyssinica Hook.f.
Impatiens abyssinica Hook.f., also known as Abyssinian balsam or Ethiopian touch-me-not, can be propagated through various methods including seed propagation, cutting propagation, and division propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Impatiens abyssinica. Seeds should be collected from mature fruits when they turn brown in color and fall off easily from the plant. The seeds should be cleaned and sown in a well-draining potting mix or seedling tray. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist until germination. The ideal temperature for germination is 20-25°C (68-77°F) and germination should occur within 1-2 weeks. Once germinated, the seedlings should be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the garden bed.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is another method of propagating Impatiens abyssinica. Cuttings should be taken from mature plants in early spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be taken from the top of the plant and should be 5-7cm (2-3 inches) in length. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end of the cutting in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and keep it moist. The rooted cuttings can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the garden bed.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is the third method of propagating Impatiens abyssinica. This method is suitable for mature plants that have become too large for their container or the garden bed. The plant should be carefully dug up and the root ball should be gently separated into smaller sections. Each section should have some stems and roots intact. The divided plants should be replanted into a well-draining potting mix or directly into the garden bed and kept moist until they are established.
Disease Management
Impatiens abyssinica is susceptible to various diseases, including fungal and viral infections.
Fungal Diseases: Leaf spots, stem rots, and root rots are the most common fungal diseases that affect Impatiens abyssinica. These diseases are caused by fungi such as Fusarium, Phytophthora, Pythium, and Rhizoctonia. To manage fungal diseases, it is essential to avoid overwatering, improve air circulation around the plant, and promptly remove and destroy infected plant materials. Fungicides can also be used to prevent and control fungal diseases.
Viral Diseases: Impatiens necrotic spot virus (INSV) and Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) are the most common viral diseases that affect Impatiens abyssinica. These diseases are spread by thrips and whiteflies and can cause severe stunting and leaf discoloration. To manage viral diseases, it is important to control thrips and whiteflies through the use of insecticides. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Several pests can attack Impatiens abyssinica, causing significant damage to the plant.
Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that feed on the plant's leaves, causing silvering and distortion. They can also transmit viral diseases to the plant. To control thrips, it is essential to maintain good hygiene in the greenhouse and avoid overhead irrigation. Insecticides can be used to eliminate thrips from the plant.
Whiteflies: Whiteflies are tiny flying insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves, causing yellowing and stunting. They can also transmit viral diseases to the plant. To control whiteflies, it is necessary to use yellow sticky traps to attract and trap the insects, and insecticides to eliminate them from the plant.
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing curling and distortion of leaves. They can also transmit viral diseases to the plant. To manage aphids, it is important to use insecticidal soaps or oils, or neem oil to eliminate the pests from the plant.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the undersides of leaves, causing stippling and leaf discoloration. They can also spin fine webs on the plant's leaves. To manage spider mites, it is necessary to increase the humidity around the plant and use predatory mites to control the pests.
Preventive measures such as regular monitoring, sanitation, and quarantine, can help minimize pest and disease problems in Impatiens abyssinica. It's crucial to identify and manage pests and diseases promptly to prevent severe damage and reduce the risk of spreading infections to other plants.
