Overview
Impatiens psychantha Launert, also known as Impatiens kilimanjari, is a species of the Balsaminaceae family. It is native to East Africa, specifically Tanzania, and can be found in the Kilimanjaro and Usambara Mountains.
Description
The Impatiens psychantha Launert is a perennial herbaceous plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. The stem of the plant is succulent and erect, with soft and fleshy leaves that are alternately arranged. The leaves of the plant are elliptical or ovate and can grow up to 25 centimeters in length and 10 centimeters in width.
The flowers of the plant usually grow in clusters at the end of the stems. They are pink or purple in color, with a yellow center. Each flower is about 2.5 centimeters in diameter and has five petals, with a spur at the back. The plant blooms in the rainy season, from July to September.
Common Names
Impatiens psychantha Launert is commonly known as Kilimanjaro balsam, Kilimanjaro touch-me-not, or simply Kilimanjaro Impatiens.
Uses
The Impatiens psychantha Launert is primarily used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive flowers and foliage. It is commonly cultivated in gardens and parks, and can also be grown in pots.
In traditional medicine, the plant is used to treat various ailments such as stomach aches and skin infections. The sap of the plant is used to treat warts and corns. The roots of the plant have also been used to treat snake bites.
Light Requirements
Impatiens psychantha Launert thrives in bright but indirect sunlight that provides sufficient light for growth. It is not tolerant of direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves. It is advisable to provide 4-6 hours of bright but indirect sunlight daily. In an indoor setting, placing the plant near a north-facing window is ideal. On the other hand, if grown outdoors, planting under the shade of taller plants or trees is advisable.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Impatiens psychantha Launert is between 15-25°C (59-77°F). The plant prefers a cooler temperature range during the night. Temperatures above 30°C (86°F) are not recommended as they can cause wilting of the leaves or even death of the plant. It is essential to ensure that the plant is not exposed to frost, which can also cause fatal damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
The soil used to grow Impatiens psychantha Launert should be rich in organic matter and well-draining. The soil should have moderate water retention capacity to provide sufficient moisture to the plant. The soil pH should be between 5.5-6.5 for optimal growth. It is advisable to add peat moss, perlite or vermiculite to enhance soil quality. The plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer throughout the growing season.
Cultivation of Impatiens psychantha Launert
Impatiens psychantha Launert, also known as the yellow-flowered impatiens, is a shade-loving plant. It thrives well in pots placed in a shaded location or under trees with dappled light. The plant prefers well-draining soils rich in organic matter with a slightly acidic pH. Before planting, loosen the soil with a garden fork or spade and remove any weeds and debris.
Watering Needs of Impatiens psychantha Launert
Impatiens psychantha Launert requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant thoroughly once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions and the soil type. Allow the top inch of the soil to dry between watering, and avoid overhead watering to prevent foliar diseases. In winter, reduce watering to prevent root rot.
Fertilization of Impatiens psychantha Launert
To promote healthy growth and abundant blooms, fertilize Impatiens psychantha Launert once every two weeks during the growing season, using a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply the fertilizer in the morning or late afternoon, when the sun is not too hot, to prevent leaf scorch. In winter, reduce fertilization or stop altogether.
Pruning Impatiens psychantha Launert
Pruning Impatiens psychantha Launert is not necessary, but it can help to promote bushier growth and prolong the blooming period. Pinch back the tips of the stems by one-third or half to encourage the plant to produce more lateral shoots and increase the number of flowers. Deadhead spent blooms promptly to prevent seed formation and encourage more blooming. Cut back the entire plant by one-third in late summer to rejuvenate it and stimulate another flush of flowers.
Propagation of Impatiens psychantha Launert
There are several methods of propagating Impatiens psychantha Launert. The most common ones include:
Seed propagation
Impatiens psychantha Launert can be propagated through seeds. To do this, one should sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, and water the soil gently. Keep the soil moist and in a warm place.
The seeds will germinate in about one to two weeks. Once the seedlings are big enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots. Water them regularly and place them in a semi-shaded spot until they are big enough to be planted in the ground.
Stem cuttings propagation
Another method of propagating Impatiens psychantha Launert is through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem and make a clean cut using a sharp and clean knife. Remove any leaves from the lower section of the stem.
Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Cover the cutting with plastic to create a greenhouse effect. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm, shaded place.
The cutting will form roots within four to six weeks. Once it has formed roots, transplant it into an individual pot. Water the soil regularly and place the pot in a semi-shaded area until the plant is big enough to be planted in the ground.
Division propagation
Impatiens psychantha Launert can also be propagated through division. To do this, lift the plant from the ground and gently separate the root ball into several sections.
Each section should have enough roots to support the plant. Plant each section in an individual pot and water the soil regularly. Place the pots in a semi-shaded area until the plants are big enough to be planted in the ground.
Propagation of Impatiens psychantha Launert is relatively easy, and the plant grows quickly. With proper care, one can have a beautiful garden filled with these lovely plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Impatiens Psychantha Launert
Impatiens psychantha Launert, also known as dazzle balsam or diamond flower, is a perennial plant with colorful flowers. Like most plants, it is susceptible to several pests and diseases, which can hamper its growth or kill it. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that affect Impatiens psychantha Launert and ways to manage them.
Diseases
1. Downy mildew: It is a devastating disease that affects impatiens and can quickly spread in humid conditions. Symptoms of downy mildew include yellowing of leaves, stunting of growth, and white or gray fuzz on the leaves' undersides. To manage downy mildew, reduce the humidity around the plant by spacing them and ensuring good air circulation. Avoid overhead irrigation and water the plants at the base.
2. Fusarium wilt: It is a fungal disease that affects impatiens and blocks the water and nutrient supply in the plant's vascular system. The symptoms of fusarium wilt include yellowing of leaves, wilting, and death of the plant. Unfortunately, there is no cure for fusarium wilt. Therefore, it is best to prevent it by buying disease-resistant cultivars and not planting impatiens in the same spot for at least two years.
3. Grey mold: It is a fungal infection that affects impatiens in humid conditions. The symptoms of gray mold include brown spots on the leaves, water-soaked patches, and fuzzy gray mold on the plant's surface. To control grey mold, prune the infected parts of the plant and make sure it receives good air circulation. Avoid overhead irrigation and water the plants at the base. Also, do not allow the plant's leaves to remain wet for an extended period.
Pests
1. Spider mites: They are tiny pests that live on the undersides of impatiens leaves and suck the sap out of them. Spider mites cause yellowing of leaves, webbing on the plant, and loss of vigor. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also wash the plant with a strong spray of water to dislodge the pests.
2. Aphids: They are small, pear-shaped insects that often cluster on the tender leaves of impatiens. Aphids suck the sap out of the plant and secrete honeydew, which attracts ants. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce ladybugs or lacewings, which are natural predators of aphids.
3. Thrips: They are tiny, slender insects that feed on impatiens leaves and buds. Thrips cause distorted growth, brown scars, and silvery-white patches on the leaves. To manage thrips, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce beneficial insects like predatory mites or minute pirate bugs that feed on thrips.
By following these disease and pest management tips, you can keep your Impatiens psychantha Launert plant healthy and beautiful.
