Impatiens usambarensis — Bushy, compact

Overview

Impatiens usambarensis is a bushy, compact annual biennial in the genus Impatiens, part of the Balsaminaceae family, with fleshy, simple, toothed leaves foliage. Impatiens usambarensis 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 usambarensis is a bushy, compact cultivar of the Impatiens genus, known for its fleshy stems and simple, toothed leaves. This evergreen perennial thrives in full shade, particularly on north-facing, sheltered aspects, where it prefers moist but well-drained, neutral loam soil rich in humus. It is hardy to UK zone H3 and is valued for summer and autumn interest. Suitable for bedding, containers, hanging baskets, and groundcover, it can be propagated by seed sowing or stem cuttings.

About the genus

Impatiens is a genus of more than 1,000 species of flowering plants, widely distributed throughout the Northern Hemisphere and the tropics. Together with the genus Hydrocera, Impatiens make up the family Balsaminaceae.

Wikipedia contributors, "Impatiens", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Impatiens

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 usambarensis 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 usambarensis

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 usambarensis?

Impatiens usambarensis prefers full shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Impatiens usambarensis need?

Impatiens usambarensis grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Impatiens usambarensis hardy in the UK?

Impatiens usambarensis 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 usambarensis?

Seed sowing, stem cuttings.

More in the Impatiens genus

Browse all Impatiens →