Origin:
Impatiens hians Hook.f. var. bipindensis (Gilg) Grey-Wilson is an African plant species that belongs to the family Balsaminaceae. Its native range is in the highland forests of Cameroon, Central Africa, where it thrives in the undergrowth of dense, shady forests.
Common Names:
The plant is commonly known as the Trumpet Impatiens or the Wide-mouthed Impatiens due to the unique trumpet-shaped flowers that are formed in canopy-covered areas. In the Central African region, it is referred to as "Olak" in Cameroon and "Okon" in Nigeria.
Uses:
The plant has several medicinal and cultural uses. In traditional medicine, a decoction of leaves and stems are used to treat wounds, stomach pains, and respiratory tract infections. The juice of the plant is also used as a treatment for earaches. This plant species plays a vital role in the traditional rituals of various Central African cultures, where it is believed to have supernatural powers and is used as a protective charm.
Appearance:
Impatiens hians Hook.f. var. bipindensis is a small shrub that typically grows up to 70cm tall, with a spread of 40-50cm. The leaves are mid-green in color, ovate-shaped, sharply toothed, and have a soft, velvety texture. The flowers are open trumpet-shaped and have a bright orange color with reddish-brown spots near the base. The fruits are capsules that explode when touched, dispersing the seeds to ensure reproduction.
Light Requirements
Impatiens hians Hook.f. var. bipindensis requires bright but indirect sunlight to thrive. It will not do well in full sun as it prefers cooler temperatures and can be prone to sunscald.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers cooler temperatures ranging from 10-25°C (50-77°F). High temperatures can cause the plant to wilt, while temperatures below 10°C (50°F) can damage the leaves and affect growth.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Impatiens hians Hook.f. var. bipindensis should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. A pH level between 5.8-6.5 is ideal for this plant. It can also benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer.
Watering Requirements
It is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Impatiens hians Hook.f. var. bipindensis can be sensitive to drought, so it is important to water them regularly. However, overwatering can also cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Humidity Requirements
The plant prefers high humidity levels of 60-70%. If the air becomes too dry, the leaves may turn brown and fall off. To increase humidity, you could mist the plant regularly or place a tray of water nearby.
Cultivation Methods
Impatiens hians Hook.f. var. bipindensis (Gilg) Grey-Wilson is a shrubby perennial that grows best in well-drained and fertile soil. It prefers partial to full shade and is best grown in tropical or subtropical climates. This plant can be propagated by seed, stem cuttings, or by division of the clumps. Plant the young seedlings or cuttings in a well-prepared soil bed, enriched with an organic fertilizer.
Watering Needs
Impatiens hians Hook.f. var. bipindensis (Gilg) Grey-Wilson prefers moist soil, so water it regularly. However, do not overwater as this can lead to root rot. Check the soil before watering and only water when the top inch feels dry to the touch. It is always better to water deeply, but less often, to encourage deep root growth.
Fertilization
Impatiens hians Hook.f. var. bipindensis (Gilg) Grey-Wilson needs regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Start fertilizing in spring and continue every two to three months, following the package instructions for dosage and application.
Pruning
Impatiens hians Hook.f. var. bipindensis (Gilg) Grey-Wilson benefits from regular pruning to maintain its shape and size and to encourage branching and new growth. Prune the plant after flowering by cutting back the old woody stems and removing any dead or diseased branches. Pinch or trim the tips of the remaining stems to promote bushiness. Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves throughout the year to prevent pests and diseases.
Propagation of Impatiens hians Hook.f. var. bipindensis (Gilg) Grey-Wilson
There are several methods of propagating Impatiens hians Hook.f. var. bipindensis (Gilg) Grey-Wilson, including seed propagation, stem cutting propagation, and division propagation.
Seed Propagation
Impatiens hians Hook.f. var. bipindensis (Gilg) Grey-Wilson can be propagated by seed. The seeds should be collected when the seedpods are mature and allowed to dry. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and water lightly. Keep the seeds under bright, indirect light and maintain a temperature of 70-75°F. The seeds should germinate within one to three weeks.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Stem cutting propagation is another method of propagating Impatiens hians Hook.f. var. bipindensis (Gilg) Grey-Wilson. Take a 3-4 inch cutting from a healthy, mature plant and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Water the cutting lightly and keep it under bright, indirect light. Maintain a temperature of 70-75°F. The cutting should root within two to four weeks.
Division Propagation
Division propagation involves dividing an established plant into smaller sections, each with its own roots and shoots. Carefully dig up the plant and divide it into smaller sections, making sure to keep the roots intact. Plant each section in a well-draining potting mix and water lightly. Keep the plants under bright, indirect light and maintain a temperature of 70-75°F. The plants should establish themselves within two to four weeks.
Disease Management
Impatiens hians, like all plants, is susceptible to various diseases that can cause significant damage. These are some of the most common diseases that affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Downy Mildew
Downy mildew is a fungus that affects the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant, leading to the appearance of yellowish or brownish patches. To manage this disease, remove the affected plant parts and destroy them. Avoid working with wet foliage since the spores of this fungus can spread rapidly. Also, ensure that the plant is adequately spaced to promote good air circulation, which can reduce the chances of a downy mildew infestation.
Verticillium Wilt
Verticillium wilt is another fungal disease that usually manifests as yellowing or wilting of leaves. To manage this disease, prune the affected plant parts and destroy them. In severe cases, you may need to remove the entire plant. Avoid planting this plant in areas with high soil alkalinity or heavy foot traffic, as these factors can make it more susceptible to verticillium wilt.
Phytophthora Root Rot
Phytophthora root rot is a soil-borne fungal disease that causes the roots to rot, leading to the plant's death. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant. Also, only use pasteurized potting soil to avoid transferring the fungus to your plant.
Pest Management
Here are some common pests that may infest Impatiens hians and ways to manage them:
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, cottony insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, leading to distorted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage mealybugs, remove them manually with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. You can also use a horticultural oil spray, which suffocates the pests by coating them with oil.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are arachnids that suck sap from the leaves of the plant, leading to the appearance of yellowish or brownish spots. To manage spider mites, rinse the plant with water to dislodge them. You can also use a horticultural oil spray or insecticidal soap to control their population. Avoid using chemical pesticides, as they can harm beneficial insects and pollinators.
Aphids
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to remove them. You can also use an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil spray to control their population.
By implementing these disease and pest management techniques, you can keep your Impatiens hians plant healthy and thriving.
