Origin and Common Names
Impatiens meruensis Gilg subsp. meruensis is a flowering plant that is native to East Africa, particularly in Kenya and Tanzania. It is commonly known as Meru impatiens, Meru balsam, or Meru jewelweed.Appearance
Meru impatiens is herbaceous and grows up to 120cm tall. It has a succulent stem that is green in color and can be either erect or prostrate. Its leaves are alternate, ovate to elliptic in shape, and measure about 10cm long and 7cm wide. They are dark green on top and light green on the underside. The flowers of Impatiens meruensis Gilg subsp. meruensis are white to pale pink in color. They have a large lip that is covered with dark pink or purple spots. The flowers are held in clusters at the end of the stems, and each flower measures about 2-3cm in diameter. They bloom from spring to autumn.Uses
Meru impatiens has both medicinal and ornamental uses. In traditional medicine, the juice extracted from its leaves is used to treat skin problems, digestive disorders, and fever. The crushed leaves are also applied topically to treat wounds, burns, and insect bites. As an ornamental plant, Meru impatiens is a popular choice for gardens and as a houseplant. It is often grown as an annual, although it can be grown as a perennial in frost-free climates. The plant prefers partial shade and moist, well-draining soil. In addition, Meru impatiens is known for its ability to attract hummingbirds and butterflies to the garden. Its delicate flowers provide nectar that these pollinators feed on.Light Requirements
The plant Impatiens meruensis Gilg subsp. meruensis prefers partial to full shade and indirect sunlight. It cannot survive in direct sunlight for extended periods and requires a shaded environment to grow well.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species thrives in tropical climates with temperatures ranging from 18-27°C (64-81°F). The ideal temperature for this plant is around 21°C (70°F), but it can tolerate a range of temperatures within its preferred range.
Soil Requirements
Impatiens meruensis Gilg subsp. meruensis grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range of 5.6 to 7.5. The soil should also retain moisture but not become waterlogged, as the plant is susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet.
Cultivation Methods
Impatiens meruensis Gilg subsp. meruensis is a striking plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors, depending on the region and climate. For outdoor cultivation, it is essential to plant the Impatiens meruensis Gilg subsp. meruensis in well-draining soil with a pH level of 5.5 to 6.5. They prefer partial shaded areas and cannot tolerate direct sunlight. For indoor cultivation, the plant requires sufficient light, preferably natural light in a room with temperatures ranging between 18 and 24 degrees Celsius.Watering Needs
Watering is a critical aspect of caring for Impatiens meruensis Gilg subsp. meruensis. It is important to keep the soil moist, but not wet. Overwatering can cause root rot, while under-watering can lead to wilted and dry leaves. Water the plant regularly, and make sure you wait until the top layer of soil is dry before watering again. If you are unsure of how much water to give, make use of a moisture meter or your finger to test the soil's moisture level.Fertilization
Impatiens meruensis Gilg subsp. meruensis require regular fertilization with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Fertilize the plant once a month during the active growth season, usually during the spring and summer months. A lack of proper fertilization results in stunted growth or poor flowering. Avoid over-fertilization as it may cause damage to the plant.Pruning
Pruning plays a crucial role in maintaining the shape and size of the Impatiens meruensis Gilg subsp. meruensis plant. Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and better flowering. Remove dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves, stems, and branches to allow the plant to direct its energy towards healthy growth. Use pruning shears or scissors to cut close to the base of the plant. It is essential to sanitize the tools used for pruning to avoid transferring any disease or infections from one plant to another.Propagation of Impatiens meruensis Gilg subsp. meruensis
Impatiens meruensis, commonly known as the Meru Impatiens, is a beautiful flowering plant that requires minimal effort to propagate. Knowing how to propagate Impatiens meruensis is essential for gardeners who want to create new plants from their existing ones. Some of the propagation methods that can be used for this plant include:
Propagation by cuttings
Propagating Impatiens meruensis by cuttings is a popular method that involves taking stem cuttings from the mother plant. After selecting a healthy stem, cut a portion that is about 4 inches long. Remove all the leaves from the lower half of the stem and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone. Then, plant the cutting in moist soil or a rooting medium, and keep it in a warm, humid environment.
Propagation by division
Dividing Impatiens meruensis is another propagation method that allows you to create new plants from the existing root system. To do this, carefully remove the plant from its container, and gently separate the root ball into two or more sections. Each section should have some roots and foliage. Then, plant these sections in pots filled with fresh potting soil, and water them thoroughly.
Propagation by seeds
Propagating Impatiens meruensis from seeds is a simple and cost-effective method. Collect the seeds from mature pods, and plant them in a seed-starting mix. Cover the seeds lightly with soil, and keep the soil moist and warm until germination occurs. Once the seedlings have grown a few inches tall, transplant them into individual pots or into the garden.
Overall, Impatiens meruensis is a hardy plant that can be propagated using various methods. With the right conditions and care, gardeners can quickly propagate this plant and enjoy its vibrant blooms year after year.
Disease Management
Impatiens meruensis Gilg subsp. meruensis is susceptible to bacterial wilt, powdery mildew, and fungal leaf spots. To manage bacterial wilt, practice crop rotation and ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging. Infected plants should be uprooted immediately to prevent the spread of the disease. Powdery mildew can be controlled by ensuring proper airflow around the plants and avoiding overhead watering. Use copper-based fungicides to control fungal leaf spots.
Pest Management
The most common pests that attack Impatiens meruensis Gilg subsp. meruensis are spider mites, aphids, and thrips. To control spider mites, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the plants. For aphids, use a strong stream of water to dislodge them from the plant, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Thrips can be managed by applying spinosad or pyrethrin-based insecticides. To prevent pest infestation, inspect plants regularly and maintain good sanitation practices in the growing area.
