Overview
Impatiens rubromaculata Warb. subsp. schulziana (Launert) Grey-Wilson is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to South Africa. This plant is commonly known as Schulz's spotted balsam or Schulz's jewelweed. It belongs to the Balsaminaceae family, and it is closely related to other popular garden plants such as impatiens and balsam
Appearance
The Schulz's spotted balsam plant typically grows up to a height of 60 cm. It has fleshy, succulent stems that are highly branched. The leaves of this plant are alternate, ovate, and have finely serrated margins. The flowers of this plant are stunning and a sure sight to behold. They are borne on long stalks with 3-6 flowers at the end. Each flower has two upper petals and three lower ones with reddish-purple spots.
Uses
The Schulz's spotted balsam is mainly grown as an ornamental plant. It is highly valued for its showy flowers and attractive foliage. This plant is often used in landscape designs, garden containers, and hanging baskets. Apart from its aesthetic value, it is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, skin infections, and inflammation. The leaves of this plant are also used to make a soothing poultice that relieves itching and irritation caused by insect bites and stings.
Light Requirements
Impatiens rubromaculata Warb. subsp. schulziana requires bright but indirect light. It can thrive in both shaded and partially shaded areas. The plant should be kept away from direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves and hinder growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers temperatures between 18°C to 25°C (65°F to 77°F). It can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C (50°F) but should be protected from frost. The plant can also tolerate high temperatures, but excessive heat may cause stunted growth and leaf drop.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Impatiens rubromaculata Warb. subsp. schulziana should be well-draining and rich in nutrients. A soil mix with equal parts peat moss, perlite, and sand is recommended. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 to 7.0. The plant can also benefit from regular fertilization during its growing season.
Cultivation Methods
Impatiens rubromaculata Warb. subsp. schulziana (Launert) Grey-Wilson is a shade-loving plant that requires a well-draining soil mix for growth. It is best to use a soil mix containing peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. The plant requires a warmer climate, and the temperature should be maintained between 18-25 degrees Celsius.
Watering Needs
Regular watering is necessary for the Impatiens rubromaculata Warb. subsp. schulziana (Launert) Grey-Wilson plant, and it should be watered once every week. Avoid overwatering or allowing the soil to dry out completely, as this can cause the plant to wilt or die. It is best to water in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid evaporation and ensure that the plant receives enough moisture.
Fertilization
The Impatiens rubromaculata Warb. subsp. schulziana (Launert) Grey-Wilson plant requires regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth. Fertilize the plant once every month using a balanced fertilizer, with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20. It is recommended to dilute the fertilizer with water before application to avoid scorching the plant roots.
Pruning
Pruning the Impatiens rubromaculata Warb. subsp. schulziana (Launert) Grey-Wilson plant is essential for maintaining its shape and promoting new growth. Remove any scraggly or diseased branches, leaves, or flowers to promote the growth of new blooms. It is best to prune the plant during the early spring before new growth appears. Use sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant and ensure a clean cut.
Propagation of Impatiens rubromaculata Warb. subsp. schulziana (Launert) Grey-Wilson
Propagation of Impatiens rubromaculata Warb. subsp. schulziana (Launert) Grey-Wilson can be achieved through various methods, including seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed propagation
Seeds of Impatiens rubromaculata Warb. subsp. schulziana (Launert) Grey-Wilson can be collected from the plant and sown in well-draining soil mix in a seed tray. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil mix and kept at a constant temperature of around 20°C. The seedlings should emerge within a few weeks, and once they have grown big enough, they can be transplanted to individual pots or planted directly in the ground.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings of Impatiens rubromaculata Warb. subsp. schulziana (Launert) Grey-Wilson can be taken from new growth during the growing season. The cuttings should be around 10 cm long and include a few leaves. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept moist and in a warm, bright location but out of direct sunlight. After a few weeks, the cutting should start to root, and once it has established a good root system, it can be transplanted to a larger pot or planted directly in the ground.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Impatiens rubromaculata Warb. subsp. schulziana (Launert) Grey-Wilson. The plant can be carefully dug up and divided into smaller sections, each with a good root system. The divided sections can be planted directly in the ground or in individual pots. Care should be taken to ensure that the soil is kept moist, and the new divisions are kept in a warm, bright location but out of direct sunlight until they are established.
Disease Management
Impatiens rubromaculata Warb. subsp. schulziana (Launert) Grey-Wilson can be affected by fungal and viral infections that cause various diseases.
One common disease is Powdery Mildew, which appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves, stem, and flowers. To prevent this disease, ensure adequate air circulation by spacing plants widely and avoiding overcrowding. Avoid overwatering and overhead watering, which can create damp conditions that promote fungal growth. Fungicides can also be used to manage a severe infestation.
Another disease is Downy Mildew, which appears as yellowing leaves with a fuzzy grey or purplish growth on the underside. To prevent this disease, water the plants early in the day so that the foliage can dry before evening. Remove and destroy infected plants and opt for resistant varieties.
Viral infections such as Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. There's no cure for viral infections, so prevent this disease by using virus-free seeds, controlling thrips, and avoiding overhead watering.
Pest management
Impatiens rubromaculata Warb. subsp. schulziana (Launert) Grey-Wilson can be affected by various pests that cause damage to the leaves and stem.
One common pest is Aphids, which suck the sap out of the plant's tissues, causing distorted growth, yellowing, and curling of the leaves. To manage aphids, introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings, wash off the aphids with a strong jet of water, or use insecticidal soap.
Spider mites can also infest the plant, causing brownish grey webbing on the foliage and speckled leaves. To manage spider mites, introduce natural predators such as predatory mites or lacewings, wash the foliage with a strong jet of water, or use insecticidal soap or oil.
Mealybugs can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves and are often found in the joint areas of the plant. To manage mealybugs, remove them with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol, wash the plant with a strong jet of water, or use insecticidal soap or oil.
Caterpillars can also feed on the foliage and cause unsightly holes. To manage caterpillars, remove them by hand, introduce natural predators such as birds or beneficial insects, or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) pesticide.
