Impatiens adenopus Gilg
Impatiens adenopus Gilg, also known as the Forest Balsam, is a plant species that belongs to the family of Balsaminaceae. This species is native to tropical Africa, specifically in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Tanzania, and Zambia.
Common Names
Aside from its scientific name and Forest Balsam, Impatiens adenopus is known by other common names such as Spotted Balsam, Jewelweed, and Touch-me-not.
General Appearance
Impatiens adenopus is a perennial herb that can grow up to 50 cm high. Its stem is erect, branched, and slightly hairy. Its leaves are alternate and oblong-ovate, ranging from 3-12 cm long and 1.5-7 cm wide. The leaves are light green and have a shiny appearance. The flowers of Impatiens adenopus are pink, purplish, or lilac with white spotted petals. Its fruit is a capsule that is up to 2 cm long, with 5 valves that split open when mature to release its seeds.
Uses
Impatiens adenopus has various uses in traditional medicine. The leaves are known to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and can be used to treat ailments such as arthritis, bruises, and burns. The juice of its stem is used to treat warts and fungal infections, while the flowers are used to treat eye inflammations. The whole plant has also been used as a remedy for eczema and other skin conditions.
Light Requirements
The plant Impatiens adenopus Gilg thrives in partial shade or filtered sunlight. It does not tolerate intense direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Impatiens adenopus Gilg grows well in warm temperatures with an ideal range between 55-80°F (13-27°C). The minimum temperature for growth is 45°F (7°C).
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers a well-draining, moist, and fertile soil enriched with organic matter. A soil pH of 5.5-7.2 is suitable for proper growth. It can also tolerate slightly acidic soil conditions.
Cultivation methods
Impatiens adenopus Gilg, commonly known as the forest impatiens, is an herbaceous perennial plant indigenous to tropical Africa's forests. It is ideal for growing in the shades of densely shaded woodland gardens, mostly in tropical and subtropical regions. To successfully cultivate Impatiens adenopus, consider planting it in a region with a temperature range of 60-75°F, an ideal humidity level of 50-70%, and soil with a decent drainage system.
The plant prefers soils that are rich in organic matters, with a pH of 6-7. A planting hole two times larger than the plant's root ball size is appropriate for planting. Since the impatiens adenopus plant tends to be quite fragile, it is necessary to be gentle while planting. After planting, cover the roots, water, and add more soil around the plant to press down gently.
Watering needs
Impatiens adenopus requires a considerable amount of water to thrive, but not too much that it drowns. During hotter months or drought, make sure that the soil stays damp, but desist from watering if it becomes oversaturated. An overly wet soil can lead to the plant's root decay and eventual death.
Water the planting site at least twice a week and monitor the soil condition. In hot and dry weather, try not to water the plant during the day when there is plenty of sunlight since the water droplets can burn the plant. It would help if you regularly checked the soil for moisture since some types of soil require more watering than others.
Fertilization
You can apply a slow-release fertilizer during spring or early summer to help boost the Impatiens adenopus growth. A balanced fertilizer with equal ratios of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is highly recommended. It would be best to note that a lot of fertilizer usage can negatively impact the soil and plant health.
Incorporate a balanced fertilizer at a rate of 2lbs per 100 sq. feet of soil and then work it into the soil. Besides, applying organic matter such as compost is an excellent way to increase soil fertility without overusing fertilizers.
Pruning
Deadheading is the most preferred way to prune the Impatiens adenopus plant. Prune or remove the wilted or dead flowers by cutting off their heads, thereby leaving the base intact. When cutting the mature or overgrown stems, use a sharp sterilized pruning blade and cut on the slanting angle to prevent pest and water damages.
If the plant is too tall or leggy, pinching off the stem can help to produce multiple branches, thus creating a fuller and more attractive plant. You can do this by snipping the top of the stem, above the leaf node.
Propagation of Impatiens adenopus Gilg
Impatiens adenopus Gilg, commonly known as yellow impatiens, is a species of flowering plant that can be propagated through several methods. Here are some of the propagation methods:
Propagation by Seeds
Yellow impatiens seeds can be collected from the matured seedpods and sown directly in the soil or in a seed starting tray. The best time for seed sowing is during spring or summer. Before sowing, make sure to clean the seeds properly and soak them in water for two days to enhance germination.
Once the seeds are sown, water them regularly and keep the soil moist. The germination usually occurs within two weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough, transplant them to the desired location.
Propagation by Cuttings
Yellow impatiens can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with two or three nodes and remove the leaves from the lower node. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining potting mix.
Keep the cutting in a warm, humid place and maintain the moisture level of the soil. The roots should start forming within two weeks, and once they are visible, the cutting can be transferred to the desired location.
Propagation by Division
Another method for propagating yellow impatiens is through division. This method is most effective when the plant has become too large for its pot or space. Dig up the plant and use a sharp, sterile tool to divide it by cutting through the roots. Each division should have some stems and roots.
Plant the divisions in new pots or locations and water them well. Keep the newly propagated plants in a shaded area for a few days before gradually exposing them to sunlight.
By following these methods, one can easily propagate Impatiens adenopus Gilg, and enjoy their colorful blooms year-round!
Disease and Pest Management for Impatiens adenopus Gilg
Impatiens adenopus Gilg, commonly known as the touch-me-not plant, is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Fusarium Wilt: Fusarium wilt is a fungal disease that causes the leaves of the impatiens plant to turn yellow and wilt. The disease is commonly spread through infected soil or water. To manage Fusarium wilt, remove and destroy infected plants, and avoid planting impatiens in the same spot for at least two years.
2. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that forms a white powdery substance on the tops and undersides of leaves. The disease thrives in high humidity and cool temperatures. To manage powdery mildew, remove and destroy infected plants, and avoid planting impatiens in areas with poor air circulation. Proper watering and fertilization can also help prevent the disease.
3. Southern Blight: Southern blight is a fungal disease that causes the plant to wilt and eventually die. The disease thrives in warm and humid conditions. To manage Southern blight, remove and destroy infected plants, and avoid planting impatiens in the same spot for at least two years.
Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to curl and turn yellow. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or a neem oil solution, and remove heavily infested parts of the plant.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged pests that suck the sap from the plant, causing stippling on the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to wash off the pests, and use insecticidal soap or a neem oil solution.
3. Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small, winged insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow and wilt. To manage whiteflies, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or a neem oil solution, and remove heavily infested parts of the plant.
Regular monitoring and maintenance of Impatiens adenopus Gilg can help minimize the impact of diseases and pests. Proper watering and fertilization can also help keep the plant healthy and resistant to diseases and pests.
