Overview
Impatiens clavicalcar 'African King' is a bushy, compact annual biennial in the genus Impatiens, part of the Balsaminaceae family, with fleshy, simple, toothed leaves foliage. Impatiens clavicalcar 'African King' grows best in full shade, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include bedding plants, containers, hanging baskets and groundcover.
About
Impatiens clavicalcar 'African King' is a bushy, compact annual biennial cultivar within the Impatiens genus, known for fleshy stems and simple, serrated leaves. This cultivar features fleshy, toothed foliage and thrives in full shade, particularly in north-facing, sheltered locations with moist but well-drained loam soil of neutral pH. It is suitable for bedding, containers, hanging baskets, and groundcover, offering interest through spring, summer, and autumn. Cultivation requires moist, humus-rich soil and regular watering to prevent wilting, with propagation possible by seed sowing or stem cuttings.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Impatiens
- Sunlight
- Full shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H3
Plant details
Impatiens clavicalcar 'African King' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Annual Biennial, Bedding
- Habit
- Bushy, compact
- Foliage
- Fleshy, simple, toothed leaves
- Suggested uses
- Bedding plants, containers, hanging baskets, groundcover
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Impatiens clavicalcar 'African King'
- Propagation
- Seed sowing, stem cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to downy mildew, aphids, whiteflies
- Disease resistance
- Downy mildew-resistant varieties available
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Impatiens clavicalcar 'African King'?
Impatiens clavicalcar 'African King' prefers full shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Impatiens clavicalcar 'African King' need?
Impatiens clavicalcar 'African King' grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Impatiens clavicalcar 'African King' hardy in the UK?
Impatiens clavicalcar 'African King' has an RHS hardiness rating of H3, meaning it is half-hardy, tolerating -5 to 1°C, and may need winter protection in colder areas.
How do I propagate Impatiens clavicalcar 'African King'?
Seed sowing, stem cuttings.
More in the Impatiens genus
- Impatiens 'Samba'

- Impatiens Antigua ('Kitigua')

- Impatiens Jose ('Kijos')

- Impatiens 'Balfusimglo'
- Impatiens 'Blues' (NG)
- Impatiens 'Celebrette Scarlet' (Celebrette Series) (NG)
- Impatiens 'Duepetorstar' (NG)
- Impatiens 'Fidimpmaxwhi' (NG)