Origin
Impatiens kasaiensis Wilczek & G.M.Schulze, commonly known as Kasai Balsam, belongs to the family Balsaminaceae. It is native to the tropical rainforests of central and eastern Africa, particularly in the Kasai region which lies across Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Zambia.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as Kasai Balsam, African Balsam, and Congo Balsam. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, it is known as Mukumbantshi or Mbolokozi.
Uses
The Impatiens kasaiensis is a medicinal plant used in traditional African medicine. The leaves and roots of the plant are used to treat various ailments such as fever, headache, stomach ache, and wounds. The plant contains alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins, which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties.
The plant is also used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive and colorful flowers. It is cultivated in gardens and used as a border plant, or as a hanging plant due to its trailing nature.
General Appearance
The plant has a herbaceous growth habit and grows up to 50 cm tall. The stems are succulent, green, and slightly hairy. The leaves are dark green, ovate, and have a serrated edge. The flowers are small, and trumpet-shaped, and are borne at the end of the stems and axils. The flowers bloom in late summer and autumn and are pink or red in color with a white eye patch in the center. The fruit is a capsule that explodes when touched, thereby dispersing the seeds.
Light Requirements:
Impatiens kasaiensis Wilczek & G.M.Schulze thrives in partial to full shade. It should be protected from direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves and stunt growth. Ideal locations for planting include areas near trees or buildings that provide ample shade.
Temperature Requirements:
The plant prefers warm temperatures that range from 18-24 degrees Celsius. Temperatures below 13 degrees Celsius or above 30 degrees Celsius can be detrimental to the growth of Impatiens kasaiensis Wilczek & G.M.Schulze. It is best to plant this plant in areas where the temperature remains within its favorable range throughout the year.
Soil Requirements:
Impatiens kasaiensis Wilczek & G.M.Schulze requires well-draining, moist soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The plant does not do well in heavy clay soils or areas with poor drainage. It is recommended to add organic matter such as compost or peat moss to the soil to improve its fertility and water retention ability.
Cultivation of Impatiens kasaiensis Wilczek & G.M.Schulze
Impatiens kasaiensis Wilczek & G.M.Schulze is a plant species that belongs to the Balsaminaceae family. It is commonly known as the proud forest jewelweed, and it is native to Central Africa. If you are looking to cultivate this plant, you should know that it thrives in well-drained soils.
The plant requires partial shade to full sun exposure, which means you should plant it in an area with dappled light. Generally, the plant grows up to 30cm tall, which means you should space them about 30cm apart to allow for optimal growth.
Watering Needs of Impatiens kasaiensis Wilczek & G.M.Schulze
The watering needs of Impatiens kasaiensis Wilczek & G.M.Schulze vary depending on various factors such as weather conditions and the size of the plant. Ideally, you should water the plant once or twice a week, especially during the hot summer months. Ensure you avoid getting water on the leaves as they are susceptible to rot.
Fertilization of Impatiens kasaiensis Wilczek & G.M.Schulze
Impatiens kasaiensis Wilczek & G.M.Schulze requires regular fertilization to stay healthy and vibrant. You should consider applying slow-release fertilizers during the growing seasons to provide the necessary nutrients. Additionally, adding organic matter to the soil can also provide the required nutrients for the plant's growth.
Pruning of Impatiens kasaiensis Wilczek & G.M.Schulze
Pruning Impatiens kasaiensis Wilczek & G.M.Schulze involves removing the dead or dying branches to promote optimal growth. Deadheading the plant is also essential to encourage the growth of new flowers. Ensure you use sharp, clean pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant's stems.
Propagation of Impatiens kasaiensis Wilczek & G.M.Schulze
Impatiens kasaiensis Wilczek & G.M.Schulze can be propagated by various methods including seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most common method for Impatiens kasaiensis. The seeds should be collected from healthy plants and sown in well-drained soil. The seeds should be covered with a light layer of soil and kept moist until germination occurs. Germination typically takes about 10 to 14 days. After germination, the seedlings should be removed from the seed tray and transplanted into individual containers.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is a quick and easy method for Impatiens kasaiensis. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants during the growing season. The cuttings should be 10-15 cm long and should include a few nodes. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone. Then, place the cutting in well-drained soil, keep it moist, and place it in a warm, humid location. The cuttings should root within 4-6 weeks and can then be transplanted into individual containers.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division is another method for Impatiens kasaiensis. Divide the plant during the growing season, ensuring that each division has a good root ball and several healthy stems. Replant the divisions in well-drained soil, keep them moist, and place them in a warm, humid location.
Overall, Impatiens kasaiensis Wilczek & G.M.Schulze can be propagated easily using different methods, and successful propagation will lead to healthy and vigorous plants.
Disease and pest management of Impatiens kasaiensis
Impatiens kasaiensis Wilczek & G.M.Schulze is a shade-loving perennial plant native to Central Africa. Although it is generally healthy and free of pests and diseases, some issues may arise. Here are some common ones and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Phytophthora root rot: Phytophthora is a soil-borne pathogen that causes root rot. Root rot can cause wilting, stunting, and leaf yellowing. To avoid root rot, avoid poorly drained soils and waterlogged areas. Plant impatiens kasaiensis in well-draining soil and ensure proper watering. Remove infected plants and dispose of them.
Bacterial wilt: Bacterial wilt causes wilting of leaves and stems and a general decline in plant health. It spreads via infected soil, water, or gardening tools. To control bacterial wilt, remove affected plants and dispose of them. Avoid overhead watering, and do not plant impatiens kasaiensis in soil that has recently grown tomatoes, peppers or eggplants.
Downy mildew: Downy mildew is a common disease affecting impatiens. It causes yellowing and wilting of leaves and dropping of flowers. It is caused by a fungus-like organism. To control downy mildew, dispose of infected plants. Provide good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Use a fungicide as necessary.
Pests
Spider Mites: These tiny insects feed on the underside of leaves causing yellowing, stunting, and leaf drop. You may notice tiny webs on the leaves. To eradicate Spider Mites, spray impatiens kasaiensis with a stream of water or use an insecticidal soap spray. Avoid using broad-spectrum insecticides as they are harmful to beneficial insects.
Thrips: These are tiny insects that feed on flowers and leaves. Their feeding causes silvering or bronzing of the leaves and leaves can become deformed. To control thrips, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or other organic pesticides. Remove spent flowers to reduce populations.
Scale insects: These insects suck sap from the plant causing yellowing, stunting, and leaf drop. They look like brown or black bumps on the stems and underside of the leaves. To control, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to kill the insects. Repeat as necessary on a weekly basis. Prevent further infestations by monitoring new plants before introductions into the garden.
Following these management practices will help maintain healthy plants, minimizing the impact of pests and diseases on Impatiens kasaiensis.
