Overview
Impatiens flammea Gilg is a plant species that belongs to the family Balsaminaceae. The plant is characterized by its beautiful orange-red flowers that attract pollinators. This species is native to Africa and can be found in various countries including Angola, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Flame balsam, Flame impatiens, or Red impatiens. The name “flame” reflects the bright orange-red of its flowers, which are truly eye-catching.
General Appearance
Impatiens flammea is a herbaceous plant that grows up to 1m tall. It has alternating, simple leaves that are oval-oblong to elliptic in shape. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and finely serrated. The plant produces bright orange-red flowers that are tubular in shape and have five petals. The flowers are borne in clusters and bloom from summer to fall.
Uses
Impatiens flammea is cultivated as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers and foliage. It is often used as a bedding plant or in borders. The flowers of the plant are attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds making it a great addition to butterfly gardens.
Light Requirements
Impatiens flammea Gilg plants thrive in shade or partial shade, similar to their close relatives commonly known as Busy Lizzies. They require filtered light or light shade to prevent their delicate leaves from burning. Direct sunlight of more than three to four hours a day can cause the leaves to wither and drop prematurely. However, if the plants receive insufficient light, they may become lanky and spindly.
Temperature Requirements
As a tropical plant, Impatiens flammea Gilg require moderate temperatures, ranging from 18°C to 26°C, to perform well. The plant may not tolerate high-temperature conditions above 30°C since they can cause wilting, discoloration, and stunted growth. On the other hand, lower temperatures can slow down or stunt the plant growth.
Soil Requirements
Impatiens flammea Gilg grows best in well-draining, moisture-retentive, and slightly acidic soil. The soil should not be too dense or sandy but rich in organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. The recommended soil pH for the plant is between 5.5 and 6.5. These plants also require good aeration and a constant supply of water to perform well. However, overwatering may lead to root rot and other fungal issues.
Cultivation methods
Impatiens flammea Gilg is a plant species native to Ethiopia, East Africa. It grows well in tropical climates and prefers partial shade. The plant can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings. The best time to plant the species is in the early summer when the temperatures are warm.
Watering needs
The plant requires regular watering since it cannot tolerate drought. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. The best approach is to water when the top inch of the soil is dry or use a moisture meter to check the soil moisture level. Water should be applied evenly around the plant to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
Fertilization
Impatiens flammea Gilg is a heavy feeder and requires frequent fertilization during its growing period. A balanced fertilizer with higher nitrogen content is recommended for healthy vegetative growth. Fertilizer should be applied to the soil every two weeks during the growing season.
Pruning
Pruning of Impatiens flammea Gilg is necessary to control its size and promote bushy growth. The plant should be pruned frequently during its growing period to prevent legginess and encourage a good form. Any dead or diseased leaves should be removed to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Impatiens flammea Gilg
Impatiens flammea Gilg is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Balsaminaceae family. This species is endemic to Cameroon and Nigeria, where it grows in the understory of forests and along streams. Propagation of Impatiens flammea Gilg can be accomplished using various methods such as seeds, cuttings or division.
Propagation from Seeds
Propagation of Impatiens flammea Gilg from seed is relatively easy. Collect mature seed capsules from the plant and allow them to dry thoroughly. Once dry, break open the capsules and remove the seeds. Sow the seeds in a moist, well-draining potting mix and cover them lightly with soil. Keep the soil moist and warm and germination should occur within 2-3 weeks.
Propagation from Cuttings
Propagation of Impatiens flammea Gilg from cuttings is also possible. Take cuttings from the plant by removing a stem from the mother plant and trimming it to about 10 cm in length. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Place the cutting in moist potting mix and keep it warm and humid. The cutting should root within 2-3 weeks.
Propagation from Division
Propagation of Impatiens flammea Gilg via division is feasible, especially when the plant becomes too large and needs to be separated. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the roots into smaller sections. Each division should have several stems and a good root system. Plant each division into a pot with well-draining soil and water thoroughly. Keep the pots in a warm and humid environment until the newly separated plants become established and start to grow.
Disease and Pest Management for Impatiens flammea Gilg
Impatiens flammea Gilg, commonly known as touch-me-not or jewelweed, is a popular garden plant due to its vibrant flowers and easy to grow nature. However, like all plants, it is also prone to diseases and pests, which can affect its growth and appearance. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Impatiens flammea Gilg and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases:
Downy Mildew: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant, causing yellowing and wilting. It spreads quickly during moist and humid conditions. To manage Downy mildew, remove and destroy infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Use a fungicide in severe cases.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a bacterial or fungal disease causing circular lesions on the leaves. It causes the leaves to turn brown and fall off. To manage leaf spot, remove the infected leaves and avoid overcrowding the plants to improve circulation. Use a fungicide in severe cases.
Common Pests:
Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing leaves to twist and curl. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids. Encourage natural predators, such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, yellowish-green pests that suck the sap out of the leaves, causing yellow spots and stunted growth. Use a forceful spray of water to remove spider mites. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control a heavy infestation.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like pests that attach themselves to the plant's stem and leaves, causing yellowing and dropping of leaves. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove smaller infestations. In case of a heavy infestation, use systemic insecticides.
By following proper care for the plant, including regular watering, fertilization, pruning, and removing dead leaves, you can prevent most of these diseases and pests. Early detection and management are essential for the healthy growth of the plant.
