Impatiens balsamina
TAXONOMY
FamilyBalsaminaceae
GenusImpatiens
Zone10
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Impatiens balsamina, commonly known as garden balsam or touch-me-not, is an annual plant in the family Balsaminaceae. It is native to India and Myanmar but has been widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant is known for its bright, colorful flowers and its ability to thrive in seasonally dry tropical climates.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Balsam
Garden Balsam
(telugu)
Touch-Me-Not
Balsamina balsamina
Balsamina coccinea
Balsamina cornuta
Balsamina foeminea
Balsamina lacca
Balsamina minutiflora
Balsamina mollis
Balsamina odorata
Balsamina racemosa
Balsamina salicifolia
Impatiens balsamina var. coccinea
Impatiens balsamina var. corymbosa
Impatiens balsamina var. longifolia
Impatiens coccinea
Impatiens cornuta
Impatiens eriocarpa
Impatiens giorgii
Impatiens malayensis
Impatiens salicifolia
Impatiens sinensis
Impatiens stapfiana
Impatiens tamsiana
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity60%
pH6
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Garden balsam prefers bright, indirect light and moderate temperatures. It thrives in humid environments but can tolerate average household humidity levels. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, and ensure it is not waterlogged. Regularly check for pests and remove any dead or yellowing leaves to encourage healthy growth.Soil
Impatiens balsamina prefers well-draining loamy soil that retains some moisture but does not become waterlogged. A mix of garden soil with compost or organic matter works well. Ensure the soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral for optimal growth.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and vibrant flowers. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.Repotting
Repot garden balsam annually or when the plant outgrows its container. Choose a pot that is one size larger and has good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its current pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil. Water thoroughly after repotting.Propagation
Impatiens balsamina can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date or directly in the garden after the danger of frost has passed. For cuttings, take a healthy stem cutting, remove the lower leaves, and place it in water or moist soil until roots develop.Pruning
Prune garden balsam regularly to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves and spent flowers to promote new blooms. Pinch back the tips of the stems to encourage branching and a fuller plant.Toxicity
Impatiens balsamina is generally non-toxic to pets and humans. However, it is always a good practice to keep plants out of reach of small children and pets to prevent any accidental ingestion.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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