Overview of Impatiens refracta De Wild.
Impatiens refracta De Wild., commonly known as Congo balsam, is a flowering plant species native to Central and East Africa. It belongs to the family Balsaminaceae and is found in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania. The plant thrives in rainforests and moist areas and can grow up to 1.5m tall.
General Appearance of Impatiens refracta De Wild.
Impatiens refracta De Wild. has an upright and slender stem, with dark green leaves that are oval or lanceolate-shaped and grow in an alternate pattern. The plant has showy and brightly colored flowers with five petals that come in various shades of pink, red, purple, and white. The flower's shape is asymmetrical with one petal projecting outwards, and it measures between 2 and 6 cm in length. The plant fruits produce thin, elongated capsules that explode when touched, scattering the seeds around the area.
Uses of Impatiens refracta De Wild.
The plant is widely recognized for its medicinal properties. The sap extracted from the stems, leaves, and flowers of the plant is used to treat skin irritations, wounds, burns, and itching. It is also used as a traditional remedy for stomach disorders, diarrhea, and dysentery. The plant's leaves are used to make a tea infusion that is believed to relieve menstrual cramps and increase lactation in breastfeeding mothers.
Impatiens refracta De Wild. is also grown as an ornamental plant in flower gardens and as a potted plant in greenhouses because of its colorful flowers. The plant is an important source of nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Light Requirements
Impatiens refracta De Wild. grows best in partial to full shade. It prefers filtered light or morning sunlight and afternoon shade. Direct sunlight can cause its leaves to burn.
Temperature Requirements
Impatiens refracta De Wild. thrives in temperatures between 55-85°F (12-29°C) but prefers cooler temperatures closer to 60-75°F (15-24°C). The plant cannot withstand frost or freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Impatiens refracta De Wild. prefers a well-draining, fertile, and moist soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. It thrives in soil rich in organic matter and requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not soggy. However, the plant cannot tolerate standing water. Adding perlite, sand, or vermiculite to the soil enhances drainage.
Cultivation methods
Impatiens refracta De Wild. is an annual flowering plant that is easy to cultivate. It prefers a shady location with well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings. If grown indoors, ensure that the temperature is around 20 to 25°C.
Watering needs
The plant requires adequate watering to thrive. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering as it can result in root rot. During hot weather, water the plant twice a day to keep it hydrated.
Fertilization
Impatiens refracta De Wild. can benefit from frequent fertilization. Use a balanced water-soluble fertilizer and apply it once every two weeks during the growing season. Alternatively, you can use a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Impatiens refracta De Wild. However, you can pinch back the tips of the plant to encourage bushy growth and increase the number of flowers. Removing spent flowers will promote continuous blooming.
Propagation of Impatiens refracta De Wild.
Impatiens refracta De Wild., commonly known as Finger Touch-Me-Not, is a popular flowering plant that belongs to the family Balsaminaceae. One of the easiest ways to propagate this plant is from stem cuttings.
Propagation from Stem Cuttings
Select a healthy stem from the parent plant that has at least two leaves. Cut the stem at a 45-degree angle using a sharp, sterilized knife or scissors. Remove the lower leaves and keep only the top two to three leaves.
Then, dip the cutting into rooting hormone powder and tap off any excess powder. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix, and water it thoroughly. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a humid environment and keep the soil moist.
Place the pot in a bright but indirect sunlight location and maintain a temperature of around 20 to 25°C. After four to six weeks, the cutting should develop roots and start growing new leaves. Once the plant has grown enough, transplant it into a larger pot or garden bed.
Propagating from Seeds
Another way to propagate Impatiens refracta is from seeds. Collect seeds from the parent plant or purchase them from a gardening store. Sow the seeds in a tray filled with a well-draining soil mix and cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil.
Water the tray thoroughly and keep it in a humid and warm place. Keep the soil moist and ensure that the tray receives indirect sunlight. In about two to three weeks, the seeds will germinate, and the seedlings will start to grow.
When the seedlings have enough leaves, transplant them into individual pots or the garden bed. Make sure that the soil is fertile and well-draining, and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
By following these propagation methods, you can quickly multiply Impatiens refracta De Wild. and enjoy its beautiful blooms in your garden or home.
Disease Management for Impatiens refracta De Wild.
Impatiens refracta De Wild. is commonly affected by a few diseases that can damage the plant. Among these diseases are:
- Fungal wilt: This fungal disease affects impatiens and it is often caused by waterlogged soil and poor air circulation. The symptoms include wilting of the plant, yellowing of leaves, and overall stunted growth. To avoid this problem, ensure the soil is well-draining and that the plant is not overwatered. Fungicides can be sprayed on the foliage of the plant to control the disease.
- Grey Mold: This disease can cause severe damage to impatiens. It causes the leaves to develop brown spots, wither and fall off. Grey mold is caused by high humidity levels or dampness and can be prevented by ensuring proper ventilation. Fungicides are also helpful in controlling this disease.
- Downy mildew: This fungal disease thrives in wet and humid conditions. It appears as white powdery spots on the leaves, turning the leaves yellow and causing them to drop. To prevent this disease, minimize moisture on the leaves by not watering the plant too much. Fungicides can also help control this disease.
Pest Management for Impatiens refracta De Wild.
While pests rarely cause major damage to Impatiens refracta, they can still be a nuisance and affect the plant's overall health. Common pests that can affect the plant include:
- Aphids: These are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves, resulting in yellowing and curling of the leaves. To control aphids, wash the leaves with insecticidal soap or spray the plant with neem oil.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars can eat through the leaves, causing holes and extensive damage. They can be controlled by handpicking them off the leaves or spraying the plant with Bacillus thuringiensis.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause extensive damage to the plant by piercing the leaves and sucking out the plant's sap. They appear as tiny red or brown spots on the underside of the leaves. To control spider mites, wash off the leaves with water and increase the humidity around the plant.
- Thrips: Thrips can cause yellowing of leaves and can also deform the flowers. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of disease or pests and taking appropriate action can help ensure healthy and beautiful Impatiens refracta De Wild. plants.
