Origin
Impatiens mackeyana Hook.f. subsp. zenkeri (Warb.) Grey-Wilson, commonly known as Mackey's Impatiens or Zenker's Balsam, is a flowering plant species native to tropical East Africa.
Common Names
Along with Mackey's Impatiens and Zenker's Balsam, this plant species is commonly referred to as the East African balsam, African jewels, or African balsam.
Uses
Impatiens mackeyana Hook.f. subsp. zenkeri (Warb.) Grey-Wilson has a variety of uses and applications. The plant's leaves and flowers are used in some African communities to make a tea or infusion believed to have a blood-purifying effect. The plant extract is also used in traditional medicine to treat skin conditions and other ailments. The plant is also a popular ornamental due to its colorful flowers that bloom year-round, making it a great addition to any garden or landscape.
General Appearance
The Mackey's Impatiens or Zenker's Balsam is a slender, upright plant that can reach up to a height of 60 cm. The leaves are glossy and ovate, with a fine serrated edge and a petiole of up to 2.5 cm in length. The flowers of this plant are brightly colored and can be white, pink, purple, or red. The petals are thin and translucent and usually have a yellow center. The blooming period of this plant lasts throughout the year, making it an ideal choice for an ornamental plant.
Light Requirements
Impatiens mackeyana Hook.f. subsp. zenkeri (Warb.) Grey-Wilson is a shade-loving plant that thrives in areas with low to medium light levels. It does not tolerate direct sunlight and should be grown in a spot with filtered or dappled shade.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Impatiens mackeyana Hook.f. subsp. zenkeri (Warb.) Grey-Wilson is between 18°C and 26°C. It is sensitive to cold temperatures and cannot tolerate frost. It is also sensitive to extreme heat and will require more water during hot weather
Soil Requirements
Impatiens mackeyana Hook.f. subsp. zenkeri (Warb.) Grey-Wilson prefers well-drained, moist soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic, between 5.5 and 6.2. A soil mix consisting of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite works well for this species.
The plant is susceptible to root rot, so it is important to avoid waterlogged soil. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Mulching around the base of the plant can help to retain soil moisture.
Cultivation Methods
Impatiens mackeyana Hook.f. subsp. zenkeri (Warb.) Grey-Wilson, commonly known as African impatiens, requires well-drained soil rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH ranges between 6.2-6.8. Plant the impatiens in a location with partial to full shade. African impatiens are sensitive to frost, so it is best to plant them after the threat of frost has ended in your region.
Watering Needs
African impatiens require consistently moist soil for optimal growth. Make sure to water them regularly, especially during hot and dry periods. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so make sure to provide adequate drainage. It is recommended to mulch around the plant to retain moisture in the soil.
Fertilization
African impatiens benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every other week or a slow-release fertilizer once a month. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Pruning African impatiens is not necessary, but it can help to promote bushier growth and lead to more flowers. Pinch back the tips of the plant to encourage branching, and deadhead faded flowers to prolong blooming. Remove any damaged or diseased foliage as soon as possible to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Impatiens mackeyana Hook.f. subsp. zenkeri (Warb.) Grey-Wilson
Impatiens mackeyana Hook.f. subsp. zenkeri (Warb.) Grey-Wilson, commonly known as African impatiens or Congo cock's comb, is a beautiful and popular flowering plant. It is native to Central and West Africa and can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. The plant is quite hardy and can thrive in both full sun and partial shade conditions.
Propagation by Seed
Impatiens mackeyana Hook.f. subsp. zenkeri (Warb.) Grey-Wilson can be propagated by seed. The best time to sow the seeds is during the warm season, preferably in early spring. To begin, fill a pot with potting soil and moisten it using water. Next, scatter the seeds over the soil surface and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist by watering it regularly, and in about 2-3 weeks, the seeds should start to germinate.
Propagation by Cuttings
Impatiens mackeyana Hook.f. subsp. zenkeri (Warb.) Grey-Wilson can also be propagated by cuttings. To do this, take cuttings of about 5-10 cm in length from the plant's healthy stem. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder. Next, plant the cutting in a pot filled with moist potting soil and cover it with a transparent plastic bag to create a humid environment. Keep the soil moist, and in about 2-3 weeks, the cutting should develop roots and start to grow.
Propagation by Division
Impatiens mackeyana Hook.f. subsp. zenkeri (Warb.) Grey-Wilson can also be propagated by division. This is best done during the plant's active growing season, which is in spring or early summer. To begin, carefully remove the plant from its container and gently separate the root clumps into smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy stem and a good root system. Next, plant the sections in separate pots containing moist potting soil and keep them in a warm spot with partial shade. Keep the soil moist, and in about 2-3 weeks, the plants should start to grow.
Disease Management:
Impatiens mackeyana Hook.f. subsp. zenkeri (Warb.) Grey-Wilson is susceptible to various types of diseases, including white mold, downy mildew, and root rot. White mold can be identified by the white powdery substance that forms on the leaves. Downy mildew causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Root rot is caused by a fungal infection and can lead to the death of the plant. To manage these diseases, it is important to practice good sanitation, avoid overhead watering, and remove any infected plants from the area. Fungicides may also be applied to prevent the spread of these diseases.
Pest Management:
Common pests that may affect Impatiens mackeyana Hook.f. subsp. zenkeri (Warb.) Grey-Wilson include spider mites, thrips, and aphids. Spider mites can be identified by the tiny webs they spin on the leaves. Thrips cause damage to the leaves, resulting in discolored and distorted foliage. Aphids suck the sap from the plant and can stunt its growth. To manage these pests, natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can be introduced to the area. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be applied to control the pest population. Additionally, regular monitoring and prompt treatment of any pest infestation can prevent the spread of pests to other plants.
