Touch-me-not
impatiens noli-tangere
Also known as: ["Impatiens glandulifera","Impatiens balsamina"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant native to Europe and Asia, known for its distinctive seed pods that burst open when touched.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Balsaminaceae |
| Genus: | Impatiens |
| Botanical Name: | Impatiens noli-tangere |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: partially shaded garden bed or container in a cool, moist environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; should not remain waterlogged but retain some moisture.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; avoid heavy clay or sandy soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; deadheading spent flowers as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 4–6 hours of bright, indirect light per day; protect from intense afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to brighter light if moving from shade; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch; place in dappled light or under taller plants for outdoor cultivation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun; provide filtered light; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 5–7 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
Soil
moist, rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); prefers cooler conditions in summer; avoid extreme heat or cold drafts.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent moderate temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize less frequently in shade; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; division of clumps for established plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with added perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors or pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; remove leggy or damaged stems; deadhead spent flowers to redirect energy to new blooms.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or diseased parts; deadhead regularly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from the current pot (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply and evenly; ensure proper drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in response to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth, cause leaf discoloration, or lead to frost damage if below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; use frost cloth for outdoor plants; ensure good air circulation to prevent cold pockets.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration if water demand exceeds supply.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Impatiens noli-tangere may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The plant is not considered highly toxic to felines but can cause temporary discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Impatiens noli-tangere by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's irritant properties. The effects are generally not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicImpatiens noli-tangere contains irritant compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The plant is not highly toxic but can provoke discomfort in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Impatiens noli-tangere toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How does this plant get its name?
A: The common name 'Touch-me-not' refers to its explosive seed pods that burst open when touched.
Q: Does this plant require special care?
A: It is relatively easy to care for, requiring moderate maintenance and partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Balsaminaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, allowing soi |
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