Busy Lizzie
impatiens walleriana
Also known as: ["Busy Lizzie","Sultan Flower","Touch-Me-Not"]
Overview
A popular annual flowering plant known for its vibrant, nectar-rich blooms that attract pollinators.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Balsaminaceae |
| Genus: | Impatiens |
| Botanical Name: | Impatiens walleriana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot near bright window with indirect light, or shaded garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, peat-based potting mix with added perlite or vermiculite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks during growing season; deadhead spent flowers as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours/day; partial shade during peak afternoon sun, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to outdoor light; protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching; place in dappled shade or filtered light indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plants for even growth; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 3–5 days, or when top inch of soil feels dry
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal diseases; ensure good drainage.
Soil
moist, well-draining, organic-rich potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.8–6.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C); prefers mild, stable temperatures; sensitive to extreme heat or cold.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; maintain stable temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), monthly in fall and winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; avoid over-fertilizing which can cause salt buildup; flush soil occasionally.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or moist soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cutting below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in water or medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix or water with occasional root hormone application.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–3 weeks; establish in new pot within 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, clear plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; change water regularly if using water propagation; maintain humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems to just above a leaf node; snip off spent flowers at the base.
Pruning Plan
Regular light pruning to encourage bushy growth and more blooms; remove spent flowers to prolong flowering.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or yellowing leaves; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh potting mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water early morning; ensure drainage holes are clear; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the base until it drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain away; water early in the day to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; increase frequency during hot, dry periods; reduce in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, bud drop, or leaf burn in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage or death in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a heat source if needed; avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering, and dehydration in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2–4 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Impatiens walleriana may experience mild gastrointestinal upset due to saponins. The plant is not highly toxic, but ingestion should be avoided to prevent discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Impatiens walleriana by dogs may cause mild gastrointestinal distress due to the presence of saponins. The plant is not considered highly toxic, but large quantities may lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicImpatiens walleriana contains small amounts of saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in significant quantities. The plant is generally considered non-toxic, but ingestion may lead to mild irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Impatiens walleriana?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring the plant does not sit in water to prevent root rot.
Q: Can Impatiens walleriana grow in full sun?
A: No, they prefer partial to full shade and can scorch in direct sunlight.
Q: Are Impatiens walleriana pet-friendly?
A: They are mildly toxic to pets if ingested, so keep them out of reach of curious animals.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Balsaminaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 3–5 days, or when top |
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