Origin and Common Names
Impatiens intermedia De Wild. is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Balsaminaceae. It is commonly known as yellow impatiens or touch-me-not. The plant is native to tropical Africa, specifically in countries such as Cameroon, Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia.
General Appearance
Yellow impatiens is a vigorous annual herb that grows up to 1.5 meters in height. The plant is distinguished by its yellow flowers that are borne on long, slender stems. The flowers are about 20 – 35 mm across and have five petals that are backed by a distinctive spur. The leaves are simple, alternate, and have serrated margins. They are around 4 – 13 cm long and 2 – 7 cm broad.
Uses
Yellow impatiens has various medicinal uses in traditional African medicine. The leaves and stems of the plant are used to treat constipation, stomachache, and wound healing. The plant is also used as a laxative, a diuretic, and a blood purifier.
The plant is also popularly cultivated as an ornamental plant because of its vibrant yellow color that gives gardens and landscapes an attractive display. Yellow impatiens is also known for its ability to grow in shady areas and its resistance to disease.
Light Requirements
Impatiens intermedia De Wild. thrives well when planted in areas that receive partial to full shade.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species grows well in warm environments with temperature ranges of between 18 to 27?. Impatiens intermedia De Wild. can survive in cooler climates, but it requires frost protection.
Soil Requirements
Impatiens intermedia De Wild. grows best in well-draining soils rich in organic matter. The pH level of the soil should be neutral and range from 6.0 to 7.5. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. The use of a mulch can help to conserve soil moisture and maintain even soil temperatures.
Cultivation Methods for Impatiens intermedia De Wild.
Impatiens intermedia De Wild. is best grown in well-draining soil and partial shade to full shade. It thrives in areas with high humidity and temperatures that range from 60°F to 80°F. It can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings and should be spaced at a distance of 12 to 18 inches from each other if grown in pots or containers.
Watering Needs for Impatiens intermedia De Wild.
Impatiens intermedia De Wild. requires constant moisture to grow and thrive. It is recommended to water the plant frequently, especially during dry periods. However, it is important to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Water the plant when the top inch of the soil feels dry and ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization for Impatiens intermedia De Wild.
The plant requires regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth and bloom. A balanced liquid fertilizer can be used every two weeks during the growing season. It is important to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package to avoid overfeeding the plant, which can harm the roots and foliage.
Pruning Impatiens intermedia De Wild.
Impatiens intermedia De Wild. does not require extensive pruning. However, it is recommended to trim the plant back by a third in the early spring to promote bushier growth and encourage more blooms. Any damaged or diseased parts of the plant should also be removed immediately to prevent further spread of the condition.
Propagation of Impatiens intermedia De Wild.
Propagation is the process of creating new plants from existing ones. Impatiens intermedia De Wild. is a beautiful plant species that can be propagated through various methods.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Impatiens intermedia De Wild. is through seeds. The seeds can be collected from the plant after the flowering season. Once collected, the seeds should be dried in the sun for a couple of days before sowing.
For sowing the seeds, a seed tray filled with seed raising mix can be used. The seeds should be sown on the surface of the soil and then lightly covered with soil. The tray should be kept in a warm and humid place, and the soil should be kept moist at all times.
Within two weeks, the seeds will germinate and develop into small seedlings. Once the seedlings are large enough, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Another method of propagating Impatiens intermedia De Wild. is through stem cuttings. This method is ideal for those who want to propagate specific varieties of the plant.
To propagate Impatiens intermedia De Wild. through stem cuttings, select a healthy stem and cut it at an angle. Remove the bottom leaves, leaving just a few leaves at the top. The cutting should be about 5-10cm long.
The cutting should then be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a pot filled with seed raising mix. The pot should be kept in a warm and humid place, and the soil should be kept moist at all times.
Within a few weeks, the stem cutting will develop roots and will be ready to be transplanted into a larger pot.
Division Propagation
Impatiens intermedia De Wild. can also be propagated through division. This method involves dividing the plant's root ball into two or more segments and then planting them in individual pots.
To propagate Impatiens intermedia De Wild. through division, carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the root ball into two or more segments. Each segment should have a few stems and a healthy root system.
Each segment should then be planted in an individual pot filled with seed raising mix. The pots should be kept in a warm and humid place, and the soil should be kept moist at all times.
Within a few weeks, each segment will develop new growth and will be ready to be transplanted into a larger pot.
Disease Management
Impatiens intermedia is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Bacterial wilt: This is a soil-borne disease that causes the plant to wilt and eventually die. There are no effective treatments once the plant is infected, so prevention is key. Rotate crops and avoid planting Impatiens intermedia in previously infected soil.
- Downy mildew: This fungal disease causes yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and eventually death of the plant. Use fungicides to manage the disease and ensure good air circulation around the plant by pruning and staking.
- Fusarium wilt: This is a soil-borne fungus that causes the leaves to yellow, the stem to become discolored, and the plant to wilt and die. Avoid planting in areas where the disease has been previously detected and use fungicides to prevent infection.
Pest Management
Several pests can affect Impatiens intermedia, including:
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can be controlled by spraying with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These are tiny insects that suck the plant's juices and cause yellow speckles on the leaves. Use a miticide to control infestations.
- Thrips: These are slender insects that feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing distortions. Control thrips by applying insecticidal soap or releasing predatory mites.
- Whiteflies: These are tiny, winged insects that feed on the undersides of leaves. They excrete a sticky substance known as honeydew, which can lead to the growth of sooty mold. Manage whiteflies by using yellow sticky traps or releasing parasitic wasps.
Regular monitoring and early detection of pests and diseases can help prevent their spread and minimize damage to your Impatiens intermedia.
