Overview:
Impatiens pseudohamata Grey-Wilson, commonly called the False Hamata Balsam, is a perennial plant belonging to the family Balsaminaceae. The plant is well-known for its attractive, finely-textured foliage and showy, purple flowers that bloom in late summer and fall.
Origin:
This plant is native to the tropical regions of Central Africa, where it grows in shaded forest understories and along streams. It was introduced to the horticultural market in the 1970s, and it has since become a popular choice for gardeners, particularly in tropical and subtropical areas.
Common Names:
In addition to False Hamata Balsam, Impatiens pseudohamata is also known by various common names, including:
- African balsam
- Congo balsam
- Balloons
- Busy Lizzie
Appearance:
Impatiens pseudohamata is an upright, bushy plant that can grow up to 1 meter tall, but it typically reaches only about 60 cm in height. The leaves are lance-shaped, finely toothed or serrated, and arranged alternately along the stems. The plant's stems are succulent, juicy, and green or red in color. The showy, purple flowers are produced in clusters of 2 to 8 blooms at the leaf axils and have a distinctive, balloon-like shape. The flowers are about 5 cm in diameter and have five petals. The bloom period of this plant is usually in late summer and early fall.
Uses:
Impatiens pseudohamata is primarily cultivated as an ornamental plant. It is often used in cottage gardens, woodland gardens, and container gardens, where its attractive foliage and showy flowers can be appreciated. The plant is also grown commercially for cut flowers. The plant has medicinal uses too. The leaves and stems are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including skin diseases, wounds, and fever.
Growth Conditions for Impatiens pseudohamata Grey-Wilson
Light: Impatiens pseudohamata usually grows well in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can harm the plant, which prefers light to be filtered by a sheer curtain or a leafy tree canopy. If grown indoors, the plant should be placed near a window with eastern or western exposure, but avoid placing it in direct sunlight as it can be too harsh for the plant.
Temperature: Optimal temperature range for Impatiens pseudohamata is between 60-75°F (16-24°C). Make sure to keep the temperature consistent as sudden fluctuations can cause the plant to die quickly. It is also essential to avoid placing the plant in drafty areas as it can lead to temperature fluctuations.
Soil: Impatiens pseudohamata grows best in rich, well-draining soil with pH levels between 6.0 and 7.5. A high-quality potting mix that includes perlite, vermiculite, or sand can be used. The soil should always be evenly moist, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Good drainage is also essential.
Fertilizer: The plant requires regular feeding with liquid or slow-release fertilizer. Fertilize the plant every two weeks in the growing season with a balanced fertilizer that includes equal N-P-K ratio. Avoid using fertilizers that contain high levels of nitrogen as it can cause foliage growth over flowering.
Humidity: Being a tropical plant, Impatiens pseudohamata prefers high humidity levels around 60-70%. To increase humidity around the plant, use a humidifier or place a tray filled with water near the plant's pot. Avoid placing the plant near air conditioning vents or heaters that can cause the dry air.
Water: Impatiens pseudohamata requires frequent watering as the soil should always be evenly moist. Water the plant once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. During the winter season, reduce watering frequency.
Cultivation Methods
The Impatiens pseudohamata Grey-Wilson, commonly known as the "Jungle Impatiens," is native to Uganda. It is best cultivated in subtropical to tropical regions and can thrive under full sun to partial shade. This plant prefers a well-draining, moist, and humus-rich soil that is slightly acidic. It is easy to propagate through stem cuttings, and the best time to do this is in the early spring.
Watering Needs
Impatiens pseudohamata requires frequent watering, especially during the growing season, to keep the soil consistently moist. However, it is crucial to avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot. You can reduce watering during the winter months but do not let the soil dry out completely. Water the plant at the base to prevent splashing on the leaves, which can cause fungal diseases.
Fertilization
This plant requires proper fertilization to bloom vigorously. Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season, from early spring to late summer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause the leaves to turn yellow and potentially cause damage to the roots.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for Impatiens pseudohamata to maintain a compact and bushy shape. It promotes healthy growth, stimulates blooming, and prevents the plant from becoming leggy. Prune back the plant as needed during the growing season, cutting just above a leaf node. You can also remove any spent flowers to encourage the growth of new blooms.
Propagation of Impatiens pseudohamata Grey-Wilson
Impatiens pseudohamata Grey-Wilson is primarily propagated by seeds. However, the plant can also be propagated by stem cuttings or division.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Impatiens pseudohamata Grey-Wilson are small and should be sown on the surface of the soil. The optimum time for seed sowing is in early spring. The soil must be kept moist, and germination can take anywhere between 14 to 21 days. After germination, the seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots and grown under controlled conditions.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are an alternative method for propagating Impatiens pseudohamata Grey-Wilson. These cuttings should be taken from the tips of the plant's stem and should be approximately 8 - 10 cm long. The cuttings should be taken during spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be placed in a rooting hormone and then planted in a well-draining soil mixture. Place them in a bright location, but out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist and the plants will soon root and start growing into new plants.
Propagation by Division
Impatiens pseudohamata Grey-Wilson can also be propagated through division. This method is best carried out in early spring when the plant has just started growing. Carefully dig up the entire plant, gently separate the roots and divide the plant into smaller sections, each containing both roots and foliage. Plant individual sections in separate pots, water well and keep in a shaded location until new growth has emerged.
Disease and Pest Management for Impatiens pseudohamata Grey-Wilson
Impatiens pseudohamata Grey-Wilson is a popular flowering plant commonly known as Himalayan balsam, which is easy to grow and care for. However, it is prone to several diseases and pests that can cause severe damage to the plant. Proper disease and pest management can help to maintain the plant's health and ensure it blooms beautifully.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Impatiens pseudohamata is downy mildew, which is a fungal disease that causes yellowing of the leaves, stunted growth, and premature leaf drop. The disease thrives in humid conditions, making it more prevalent during rainy seasons. To manage downy mildew, remove infected plant parts and avoid watering the leaves, which can spread the spores.
Anothr prevalent disease is the Fusarium Wilt, which is another fungal disease that causes wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the plant. It can be managed by removing the infected plants and disinfecting the soil or growing medium before planting a new crop.
Common Pests
The two most common pests that attack Impatiens pseudohamata are Whiteflies and Spider Mites. Whiteflies are small flying insects that suck the sap out of the leaves, causing yellowing, stunted growth, and leaf drop. They can be managed using insecticides or by introducing natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings into the garden.
Spider Mites, on the other hand, are tiny bugs that feed on the plant's sap, leaving behind discolored, stippled leaves. They can be controlled by spraying the plants with water and insecticidal soap or using beneficial insects like predatory mites and ladybugs.
Preventive Measures
Preventive measures are the best way to manage diseases and pests in Impatiens pseudohamata. Start by choosing healthy plant material from a reputable nursery and avoiding overcrowding the plants. Proper irrigation and fertilization practices can help keep the plants healthy and more resistant to diseases and pests. Finally, always monitor your plants regularly for any signs of disease or pest infestation and take immediate action to manage the problem.
