Description
New Guinea impatiens are grown as annuals and belong to the balsam family (Balsaminaceae). They originate from New Guinea and the surrounding region. The plants reach up to 30 cm and have a bushy habit.
New Guinea impatiens flower profusely and evenly. Depending on the variety, the flowers may be orange, red, pink, purple or white, with varying degrees of doubleness. The leaves are lance-shaped and glossy, green or tinted red or bronze, or mixed – always glossy. Some varieties have variegated leaves, for example yellow leaves with dark green edges and a pink midrib.
Requirements
New Guinea impatiens need humus-rich, nutrient-rich and fairly moist soils.
Propagation
The plants are propagated from stem cuttings. While they are rooting and at the start of vegetative growth, the temperature should not fall below 12°C.
Care
Impatiens of this group can be grown indoors or outdoors. They like sheltered spots, from partial shade to sun, but protected from direct sunlight. They do not like temperatures that are too high, so they do very well outdoors in summer. The optimum temperature should not exceed 20°C, with a lower limit of about 15°C. They need conscientious watering, as they react strongly to drying out. The higher the temperature and the brighter the spot, the more generous the watering should be – but do not overdo it, as the plant can rot very quickly. Feed moderately every week.