Impatiens

File:Impatiens glandulifera.ogv

Impatiens zombensis

Erlenbach TS Springkraut

Alpha-parinaric acid

Double impatiens

Impatiens is a genus of over 1,000 species of flowering plants in the family Balsaminaceae. Known for their distinctive spurred flowers, members of this genus are commonly referred to as "touch-me-nots" due to the explosive dehiscence of their seed pods when ripe, which can scatter seeds several meters away. Impatiens species are found throughout the Northern Hemisphere and the tropics. They are especially diverse in tropical regions like East Africa and the Himalayas. These plants are popular in horticulture and are widely used in gardens and landscaping for their colorful flowers and shade tolerance.

Description

Impatiens plants are annuals or perennials with a succulent stem. They vary in size from small, ground-hugging species to taller plants that can reach up to 2 meters in height. The leaves are often lance-shaped or ovate, with a toothed margin. The flowers can be single or double, with colors ranging from white, pink, and red to purple and orange. The characteristic feature of Impatiens flowers is their conical spur, which is formed by the fusion of two petals.

Habitat and Distribution

Impatiens species are found in a wide range of habitats, from temperate forests to tropical jungles. They typically prefer moist, shaded areas, making them ideal for woodland gardens or as underplanting in shaded borders. The distribution of Impatiens is global, with a significant number of species occurring in Africa, Asia, and North America.

Cultivation and Uses

Impatiens are popular ornamental plants due to their vibrant flowers and ability to grow in shaded areas where other flowering plants might struggle. They are commonly used in container gardening, hanging baskets, and as bedding plants. Impatiens are relatively easy to cultivate, requiring well-drained soil rich in organic matter and consistent moisture. They can be propagated from seeds or cuttings.

In addition to their ornamental value, some species of Impatiens have been used in traditional medicine in various cultures to treat conditions such as rheumatism, warts, and fungal infections.

Conservation

While many Impatiens species are common and widely cultivated, some are rare and endangered in their natural habitats. Habitat destruction, invasive species, and climate change pose threats to wild Impatiens populations. Conservation efforts are necessary to protect these species from extinction.

See Also

• Balsaminaceae
• Ornamental plant
• Seed dispersal

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