Origin
Impatiens gossweileri G.M.Schulze subsp. kasaiensis (R.Wilczek & G.M.Schulze) Grey-Wilson is a subspecies of the plant Impatiens gossweileri, which is native to the Kasai region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo in central Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Kasai Balsam or Kasai Impatiens.
Uses
Kasai Balsam is mainly used for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscapes due to its attractive and colorful flowers. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as coughs, nasal congestion, and skin infections. Additionally, the plant contains chemical compounds that display antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
General Appearance
The plant is an herbaceous annual that typically grows to a height of 20-40 cm. It has succulent stems, alternate leaves, and showy flowers that vary in color from white, pink, to reddish-purple. The flowers are tubular with a spur and have five petals that resemble butterfly wings. The plant blooms from mid-spring to early autumn and produces numerous seeds that are dispersed by explosive dehiscence of seed capsules.
Typical Growth Conditions of Impatiens gossweileri G.M.Schulze subsp. kasaiensis (R.Wilczek & G.M.Schulze) Grey-Wilson
Impatiens gossweileri G.M.Schulze subsp. kasaiensis (R.Wilczek & G.M.Schulze) Grey-Wilson commonly known as dwarf African impatiens, is an herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Balsaminaceae. It is native to Central Africa, specifically the Democratic Republic of Congo and Angola. The plant grows up to a height of 10-20cm and produces beautiful pink flowers that bloom throughout the year.
Light Requirements
Impatiens gossweileri subsp. kasaiensis thrives in areas with partial to full shade. The plant requires a minimum of 3-4 hours of direct sunlight to grow and produce flowers. Direct sunlight for an extended period can damage the leaves and cause the plant to wither.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers moderate temperatures and thrives in regions with an average temperature range of 20-25°C. Temperatures above 30°C can damage the plant, while temperatures below 10°C can cause leaf drop. Impatiens gossweileri subsp. kasaiensis is frost-sensitive and requires protection from frost during the winter season.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH range of 5.5-6.5. Impatiens gossweileri subsp. kasaiensis cannot tolerate waterlogged soils, and it is essential to ensure that the soil is not too compact. The addition of compost can improve soil fertility and aid in water retention.
Regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer is essential for the plant's growth and development. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged at all times. Proper drainage and water management can help to prevent root rot infections that can damage the plant.
Overall, Impatiens gossweileri subsp. kasaiensis is a low-maintenance plant that requires partial to full shade, moderate temperatures, and well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. With proper care, the plant can thrive and produce beautiful pink flowers that add color to the garden throughout the year.
Cultivation Methods
Impatiens gossweileri G.M.Schulze subsp. kasaiensis (R.Wilczek & G.M.Schulze) Grey-Wilson prefers partial to full shade and well-draining, fertile soil. It can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. Starting seeds indoors before transplanting outdoors is recommended.Watering Needs
Impatiens gossweileri G.M.Schulze subsp. kasaiensis (R.Wilczek & G.M.Schulze) Grey-Wilson requires regular watering. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is important to avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent fungal diseases.Fertilization
Impatiens gossweileri G.M.Schulze subsp. kasaiensis (R.Wilczek & G.M.Schulze) Grey-Wilson benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer can be applied every two to three weeks. Alternatively, slow-release granular fertilizers can be added to the soil.Pruning
Impatiens gossweileri G.M.Schulze subsp. kasaiensis (R.Wilczek & G.M.Schulze) Grey-Wilson does not require frequent pruning. However, deadheading spent blooms can help encourage further flowering. If the plant becomes leggy, it can be pinched back to promote bushier growth.Propagation of Impatiens gossweileri G.M.Schulze subsp. kasaiensis
Impatiens gossweileri G.M.Schulze subsp. kasaiensis can be propagated through various methods including:
Seeds
The easiest and most common way to propagate Impatiens gossweileri G.M.Schulze subsp. kasaiensis is by using its seeds. Collect the seeds when the seed capsules start to turn brown and split open. Sow the seeds in a seed tray at a depth of about 0.5 centimeters in moist, well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and place the tray in a warm and brightly lit area but away from direct sunlight. The seeds should germinate in about 1-2 weeks and once they have grown two true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or into a larger container.
Stem Cuttings
Impatiens gossweileri G.M.Schulze subsp. kasaiensis can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Take a stem cutting that is about 8-10 centimeters long and has at least two nodes. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder to increase the chances of rooting. Insert the cutting into moist, well-draining soil, and keep the soil moist. Place the cutting in a shaded or semi-shaded area but avoid direct sunlight. The cutting should root in about 2-3 weeks and can be transplanted into a larger container or into individual pots with well-draining soil.
Division
Another way to propagate Impatiens gossweileri G.M.Schulze subsp. kasaiensis is through division. Lift the plant and divide it into smaller sections with a sharp and clean knife ensuring that each section has some roots and shoots. Replant the sections in a suitable container with well-draining soil and water well. Place the container in a shaded or semi-shaded area but away from direct sunlight. The divided plant should establish in about 2-3 weeks and will start to produce new growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Impatiens gossweileri G.M.Schulze subsp. kasaiensis (R.Wilczek & G.M.Schulze) Grey-Wilson
Impatiens gossweileri G.M.Schulze subsp. kasaiensis (R.Wilczek & G.M.Schulze) Grey-Wilson is relatively resistant to most diseases and pests. However, like any plant, it's susceptible to some common pests and diseases.
Diseases
The primary diseases that affect Impatiens gossweileri G.M.Schulze subsp. kasaiensis (R.Wilczek & G.M.Schulze) Grey-Wilson are fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, downy mildew, Verticillium wilt, and Fusarium wilt. These diseases damage the leaves, stems, and flowers and can cause stunted growth or death of the plant.
To prevent fungal diseases, remove any dead or infected plant material and avoid wetting the foliage during watering. Use clean pruning tools and avoid watering at night to reduce moisture on the plant. If the plant is infected, use a fungicide to stop the spread of the disease.
Pests
The most common pests that affect Impatiens gossweileri G.M.Schulze subsp. kasaiensis (R.Wilczek & G.M.Schulze) Grey-Wilson are aphids, spider mites, and thrips. These pests suck sap from the plant, causing leaves to wilt, yellow, or drop. They can also transmit viruses that affect the plant's growth.
To prevent pests, keep the plants healthy with good cultural practices like nutrient-rich soil and proper watering. Monitor the plants frequently to detect pests early before they multiply and spread. If you detect pests, use an insecticide that targets the specific pest or use natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings to control them.
Conclusion
By following the above tips, you will be able to manage pests and diseases on Impatiens gossweileri G.M.Schulze subsp. kasaiensis (R.Wilczek & G.M.Schulze) Grey-Wilson effectively and keep the plants healthy.
