touchmenots

The term "touchmenot" is commonly used to refer to plants belonging to the genus Impatiens, particularly species known for their explosive seed pods. When these pods are ripe and touched, they burst open, scattering seeds in a process called dehiscence. This rapid dispersal mechanism is a key characteristic of touchmenots.

Several species are known as touchmenots. Impatiens walleriana, often called busy Lizzie or patience plant, is a popular garden annual. Impatiens capensis, the spotted touchmenot or jewelweed, is a native of North America and is often found in moist, shady areas. Another North American native is Impatiens pallida, the pale touchmenot.

These plants typically have succulent stems and a preference for moist, shaded environments, though some varieties can tolerate more sun. Their flowers come in a wide range of colors, including pink, red, orange, white, and purple, and they are often attractive to pollinators. The sap of some touchmenot species, particularly jewelweed, is traditionally used as a folk remedy for poison ivy rashes, though scientific evidence for its efficacy varies. The rapid seed dispersal makes touchmenots a fascinating subject for botanical study and a common sight in gardens and wild landscapes.