Cobaea impatiens
impatiens capensis
Also known as: ["Cobaea impatiens","Jewelweed","Spotted Touch-Me-Not"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant native to North America, known for its distinctive orange or yellow flowers with reddish spots.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Balsaminaceae |
| Genus: | Impatiens |
| Botanical Name: | Impatiens capensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: partially shaded garden bed or container
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Well-draining to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged soil.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining, organic soil; peat-based mix with compost and perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during growing season; deadheading flowers as they fade.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 4–6 hours of morning sunlight or bright indirect light; avoid intense afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to outdoor light; protect from harsh midday sun; in low-light conditions, supplement with artificial light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Morning sun is best; avoid hot afternoon sun; rotate pots for even growth.
Watering
every 3–5 days
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow top inch of soil to dry between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, rich, well-drained soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a quality potting mix; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil.
Temperature
60–75°F (15–24°C); prefers cool to moderate temperatures; sensitive to extreme heat or cold.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; division of clumps; seeds.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle, plastic bag or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems to encourage branching; remove dead or damaged growth; deadhead spent flowers.
Pruning Plan
Encourage bushier growth and more blooms; remove spent flowers to promote continuous flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools before use; prune in early morning; remove dead or diseased parts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
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 rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water when top inch is dry; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; ensure water penetrates deeply to encourage deep roots; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during active growth; reduce watering in winter dormancy; water more frequently in hot, dry conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add organic matter like compost; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, yellowing, or stunted growth in heat; leaf drop, cold damage, or cessation of flowering in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; ensure soil is well-drained; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Causes wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, and increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; improve air circulation; mist foliage in extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter fertilization; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 2–4 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may suffer mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume Impatiens capensis. The plant poses a low risk of toxicity but can cause discomfort in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Impatiens capensis. The plant is not considered highly toxic to canines but can cause mild irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicImpatiens capensis, commonly known as orange balsam or touch-me-not, 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 capensis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Jewelweed grow well in shade?
A: Yes, it thrives in partial to full shade.
Q: What are the common uses of Impatiens capensis?
A: It is often used in gardens for its attractive flowers and is known for its traditional use in treating poison ivy rashes.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Balsaminaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 3–5 days |
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