Origin and Common Names
Impatiens usambarensis x I. wallerana Hell. is a hybrid plant that resulted from a cross between Impatiens usambarensis and Impatiens wallerana. Both parent plants are native to Africa, specifically Tanzania and Kenya respectively. This hybrid cultivar is commonly known as the New Guinea Impatiens, due to the fact that it was first discovered in the regions of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.General Appearance
This plant is an evergreen perennial, which means from year to year it retains its leaves in every season. It grows to an average height of 8 to 20 inches and typically spreads to a width of 12 to 18 inches. It has a sturdy and bushy appearance, with a range of beautiful colors like pink, orange, lavender, red, white, and bi-colors ranging from single to double blooms.Uses
The Impatiens usambarensis x I. wallerana Hell. is widely used for ornamental purposes, serving as both an outdoor and indoor plant. Gardeners love them, due to their unending blooming season, low maintenance, and fascinatingly vibrant colors that add an incredible aesthetic value to any landscape or garden. In warmer climates, they grow as outdoor bedding plants, while, in colder climates, they thrive as houseplants. Overall, Impatiens usambarensis x I. wallerana Hell is an impressive hybrid cultivar that combines the best of both parental lines. It is noteworthy that this plant requires well-drained soil, regular watering, a balanced fertilizer, and a sunny location (when grown outdoors) to get the best growth possible.Light Requirements
The Impatiens usambarensis x I. wallerana Hell. requires bright but filtered light, making it ideal for shaded areas with indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can lead to leaf discoloration or even sunscald.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal growth temperature range for this plant is between 65-75°F (18-24°C) during the day and not lower than 55°F (13°C) at night. It is intolerant to frost and needs protection from temperatures below 40°F (4°C).
Soil Requirements
The Impatiens usambarensis x I. wallerana Hell. prefers a well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. A pH range of 6.0 to 7.0 is most suitable. Soil should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Soil drying out may lead to wilting and eventual death.
Cultivation Methods
Impatiens usambarensis x I. wallerana Hell. is a hybrid of two different species of impatiens. It prefers a well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. This plant needs bright, indirect light to grow properly. Direct sunlight can be harmful to this plant and can easily scorch its leaves.
This plant prefers a consistently moist soil, so it is important not to let the soil dry out completely. It can be grown in containers or directly in the soil. If planted in a container, it should be a well-draining container with a good-quality potting mix.
Watering Needs
Watering is an essential part of Impatiens usambarensis x I. wallerana Hell. care. This plant prefers consistently moist soil, so it is essential not to let the soil dry out completely. However, overwatering can cause the roots to rot, so it is crucial to maintain a balance. It is best to water this plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Fertilization
Impatiens usambarensis x I. wallerana Hell. should be fertilized regularly for optimal growth. A balanced fertilizer that is higher in nitrogen will encourage the growth of foliage. A fertilizer with more phosphorus will encourage the growth of flowers. It is best to follow the package instructions when fertilizing this plant to avoid over-fertilizing.
Pruning
Impatiens usambarensis x I. wallerana Hell. does not require frequent pruning. However, if the plant becomes leggy or unkempt, it can be pruned back to maintain its shape. It is best to prune after a flush of blooms has finished. This plant can also benefit from deadheading, which involves removing spent blooms to encourage the growth of new ones.
Propagation of Impatiens Usambarensis x I. Wallerana Hell.
Impatiens Usambarensis x I. Wallerana Hell. is a hybrid species that can be propagated through various methods such as seeds, stem cuttings, and root cuttings. Propagation can be done any time of the year, but it is best to do it during the growing season to increase the chances of success.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation through seeds requires patience, but it is the easiest method. Sow the seeds on the surface of moist peat moss and keep them in a warm, brightly lit area. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
After the germination, the seedlings should have at least two sets of true leaves before transplanting them into individual pots. Provide the seedlings with bright filtered light and keep them in a consistently moist environment until they establish a strong root system.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings is a faster method than seeds. Select a healthy, disease-free stem tip from the parent plant. Using a clean, sharp scissors, make a clean cut just below a node, and remove the lower leaves, leaving only two or three at the tip.
Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in a container filled with moist potting soil. Cover the container with a clear plastic bag to maintain high humidity and keep the soil moist until the roots develop.
Propagation through Root Cuttings
Propagation through root cuttings is also a fast method. Select a healthy root from the parent plant, and cut it into sections about 1 inch long. Plant the cuttings horizontally on moist potting soil with the cut end down.
Cover the container with a clear plastic bag to maintain high humidity and keep the soil moist until roots develop. Once the roots are established, transplant each cutting into individual pots with well-draining potting soil.
Whichever propagation method you choose, be sure to follow proper sanitation protocols and provide adequate care to ensure the success of your newly propagated Impatiens Usambarensis x I. Wallerana Hell. plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Impatiens Usambarensis x I. Wallerana Hell.
Impatiens Usambarensis x I. Wallerana Hell., commonly known as hybrid impatiens, is a popular flowering plant that is easy to grow. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests that can affect its growth and appearance. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect hybrid impatiens, along with some management strategies.
Diseases that Affect Hybrid Impatiens
Fungal diseases are the most common problems that affect hybrid impatiens. Some of the most prevalent diseases are:
1. Downy Mildew: This disease is caused by Plasmopara obducens, a fungus that thrives in moist conditions. Infected plants exhibit yellowing, stunted growth, and leaf drop. To control Downy mildew, remove infected plants and improve air circulation around the plants. Avoid watering the plants from overhead and apply copper-based fungicides.
2. Powdery mildew: caused by Erysiphaceae family of fungi, appearing as powdery white spots on the leaves. The disease causes the leaves to shrivel and the plant to suffer damage. To control Powdery mildew, remove the infected parts and discard them. Prune away the overgrown branches to increase air circulation and avoid overcrowding. Use fungicides like copper and sulfur sprays, neem oil or horticultural oils.
3. Fusarium Wilt: This disease is caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum, and it thrives in warm and moist conditions. It causes wilting, stunted growth, and leaf drop. To control, remove the infected plant's tissue, avoid overhead watering, and minimize mechanical injury
Pests that Affect Hybrid Impatiens
Impatiens are prone to some pests that can cause serious damage to the plant's health and aesthetic appeal. The most common pests are:
1. Aphids: These small pear-shaped insects suck the plant's sap and release a sticky substance known as honeydew. They cause wilting and yellowing of leaves. To manage, wash the plant with soapy water, prune out badly infested leaves, release ladybugs or parasitic wasp.
2. Spider Mites: These pests are tiny red or brown critters that can cause yellowed leaves and webbing. To manage, rinse the plant with cold water, spray it with insecticidal soap, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
3. Scale Insects: These pests seem like tiny bumps or scabs on the plant stem or leaves. They suck the sap and release honeydew, which results in discolored and wilted leaves. To manage, wipe the plant with a cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol.
Keeping your impatiens healthy depends primarily on proper plant care. Regular watering, fertilization, pruning, and removing any unhealthy plant parts can prevent these common pests and diseases. If the plant's health still declines, it is best to consult a horticulturist or an expert for appropriate management of the plant's problem.
