Origin
Impatiens kamerunensis Warb. var. parvifolia Grey-Wilson, also known by its common name "Kamerun Balsam", is a species of flowering plant that is native to Cameroon, a country located in Central Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Kamerun Balsam, Balsamweed, or Touch-me-not plant in English. In other languages, it is called Bálsamo de Camerún in Spanish and Baume du Cameroun in French.
Uses
Impatiens kamerunensis Warb. var. parvifolia Grey-Wilson has several medicinal properties. It has been traditionally used to treat a variety of ailments in Cameroon, including dermatitis, skin eruptions, and abscesses. The plant is also known for its pulpy stems, which are used to make a strong glue that can be used to fix broken pottery or wooden objects.
General Appearance
The Kamerun Balsam grows as a small shrub, reaching up to 1m in height. It has a thin stem with soft green leaves that are arranged alternately along the stem. The light green leaves are oblong to ovate in shape, measuring around 2-5cm long and 1-3cm wide. The plant produces small white and pink flowers that grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The flowers have five petals, and its seed pods explode when touched, giving it the nickname "Touch-me-not".
Light Requirements
Impatiens kamerunensis Warb. var. parvifolia Grey-Wilson requires partial to full shade. It can tolerate some direct sunlight in the morning, but direct sunlight for extended periods can damage the leaves. It's essential to protect the plant from direct afternoon sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in warm temperatures and cannot survive in freezing temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Impatiens kamerunensis Warb. var. parvifolia Grey-Wilson is between 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). The plant's growth is adversely affected at temperatures above 85°F (29°C) or below 50°F (10°C).
Soil Requirements
Impatiens kamerunensis Warb. var. parvifolia Grey-Wilson thrives in nutrient-rich, well-draining soil with pH in the slightly acidic to slightly alkaline range, between 6 and 7. It needs soil that can hold moisture well but still allows excess water to drain quickly, preventing waterlogging. A mix of peat moss, perlite, or vermiculite with garden soil can make an ideal planting mix for this plant.
Cultivation Methods
Impatiens kamerunensis Warb. var. parvifolia Grey-Wilson, commonly known as Cameroon Balsam, is a tropical plant that thrives in warm and humid conditions. It is best cultivated in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil that is slightly acidic. The plant requires partial sunlight shade and protection from strong winds.
Propagation can be done through seeds or stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken during the growing season, usually from March to August, and planted in a well-draining potting mix.
Watering Needs
Cameroon Balsam requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Watering should be done once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. In hot and dry climates, the plant may require more frequent watering to prevent the soil from drying out.
It is important to allow the water to drain away properly to prevent root rot and other water-related problems. The plant should be watered early in the day to allow the foliage time to dry before the onset of cooler temperatures at night.
Fertilization
Cameroon Balsam needs regular feeding to support healthy growth and promote the production of flowers. The plant requires a balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season. It should be administered at half the recommended dosage to prevent damaging the plant's roots.
Pruning
Cameroon Balsam requires minimal pruning to maintain shape and promote bushy growth. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage the production of new blooms. It is best to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased foliage as soon as possible to prevent the spread of diseases.
Regular pruning can also help to prevent overcrowding and improve air circulation around the plant, which can reduce the risk of fungal infections and other diseases.
Propagation of Impatiens kamerunensis Warb. var. parvifolia Grey-Wilson
Impatiens kamerunensis Warb. var. parvifolia Grey-Wilson, commonly known as small-leaved Cameroon balsam, is an attractive plant that is easy to grow. The plant is native to Cameroon, where it grows in cool, moist conditions. This plant can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, or division.
Propagation from seeds
The seeds of Impatiens kamerunensis Warb. var. parvifolia Grey-Wilson can be sown in the spring. The seeds should be covered lightly with soil and kept moist until they germinate. Germination usually takes about 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown large enough, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the garden.
Propagation from cuttings
Impatiens kamerunensis Warb. var. parvifolia Grey-Wilson can also be propagated from stem cuttings. Take cuttings from the plant in the spring or early summer. Cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and should have at least two leaves. Remove the lower leaves and place the cutting in a pot with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a shaded area until it has rooted. Once the cutting has developed roots, it can be transplanted to a larger pot or into the garden.
Propagation by division
The plant can also be propagated by division. Divide the plant in the spring as soon as new growth appears. Dig up the plant and gently separate the roots into several clumps. Replant the clumps into pots or directly into the garden. Keep the soil moist until the plant becomes established.
Disease and Pest Management for Impatiens kamerunensis Warb. var. parvifolia Grey-Wilson
Impatiens kamerunensis Warb. var. parvifolia Grey-Wilson is a beautiful plant that can be affected by various diseases and pests. Here are some of the most common ones and the methods to manage them.
Diseases
Bacterial wilt: This is a bacterial disease that causes wilting, yellowing, and death of the plant. It can be spread through contaminated soil or pruning tools. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plants, and avoid using the same tools on healthy plants. Also, ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and make the plant more susceptible to bacterial wilt.
Downy mildew: This fungal disease can cause yellowing and leaf drop. It thrives in humid conditions and can spread rapidly. Prevention is key to managing downy mildew. Keep the plant dry by watering at the base to avoid wetting the leaves. Provide good air circulation around the plant. Remove and destroy infected leaves, and avoid overhead watering.
Pests
Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause distorted growth, yellowing, and stunted growth. To manage aphids, clean the plant by washing it with a stream of water. Alternatively, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
Spider mites: These tiny pests suck the sap of the plant, causing discoloration, yellowing, and wrinkling of the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to increase humidity and keep the leaves clean. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil for severe infestations.
Whiteflies: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and a sticky residue on the leaves. To manage whiteflies, use yellow sticky traps to capture adults, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
By being vigilant and taking prompt action, you can successfully manage diseases and pests to keep your Impatiens kamerunensis Warb. var. parvifolia Grey-Wilson healthy and beautiful.
