Impatiens stenantha
narrow-flowered balsam
A compact perennial forming a low-growing mound to approximately 40cm tall of dark red stems clothed with broadly lance-shaped, scallop-edged,dark green leaves flushed with red. Small, spurred, orange-yellow flowers with a red-speckled throat are borne from summer into autumn
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Red | Green Red | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red | Orange Yellow Red | Green Red | |
| Autumn | Red | Orange Yellow Red | Green Red | |
| Winter |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Balsaminaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Impatiens can be annuals or evergreen perennials, with fleshy stems bearing simple, toothed leaves and solitary or clustered, spurred, 5-petalled flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- E Nepal, Sikkim
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in a sheltered position in partial shade. Mulch well in winter
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by softwood cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Patio and container plants
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to slugs, snails, aphids and vine weevils
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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