impatiens

Impatiens is a genus of flowering plants in the family Balsaminaceae, comprising about 850 species of herbaceous annuals and perennials. They are native to tropical and temperate regions of Asia, Africa, and Europe and are widely cultivated as ornamentals.

Most species are herbaceous with slender, succulent stems; leaves are simple, oval to lanceolate with serrated margins. Flowers are zygomorphic with a fused corolla forming a long nectar spur; colors range from pink and red to white, orange, and purple.

They prefer partial shade and consistently moist, well-drained soils. In temperate regions they are grown as annuals. Garden cultivars include common garden impatiens (I. walleriana) and New Guinea impatiens (I. hawkeri), the latter often more tolerant of sun and heat.

The plant produces seed capsules that are explosive and disperse seeds when touched, giving the common name touch-me-not.

Impatiens downy mildew, caused by Plasmopara obducens, led to widespread declines in some regions in the 2010s. Many modern cultivars show resistance, and growers emphasize disease prevention, resistant selections, and improved cultural practices.

The name Impatiens derives from Latin impatiens, meaning impatient, in reference to the rapid seed dispersal.

Impatiens are widely used in shade borders and containers, and some wild species provide nectar for pollinators in their native habitats. They are valued for rapid growth, colorful flowers, and versatility in garden settings.