Introducing...
Impatiens
Common name: Balsam, busy Lizzie
Commonly known as busy Lizzies, Impatiens offer a kaleidoscope of flower colour. Popular for summer bedding and containers, some are grown as houseplants, while lesser-known hardy species can be left outdoors year-round. Most prefer shade, but some thrive in full sun.
Looks
Almost succulent stems are topped by vibrantly coloured disc-shaped or tubular flowers set against fleshy, light to dark green leaves. Flowers have a characteristic spur behind the bloom.
Likes
They grow best in part-shade on well-drained soils that don't dry out completely, and they grow well in containers. Some cultivars, such as those in the SunPatiens series, tolerate full sun.
Dislikes
Wet conditions encourage the growth of fungal moulds on the flowers and leaves, causing them to collapse. The roots will rot in waterlogged soils. Most don't do well in full sun.
Did you know?
The botanical name Impatiens refers to their dramatically explosive seedpods, which was perceived as their “impatience” to reproduce.
Growing guide
How to grow Impatiens
All the information you’ll need to grow and care for Impatiens in your garden and home.
Impatiens we recommend
Impatiens niamniamensis
parrot plant
- 0.5–1 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Impatiens niamniamensis
parrot plant
- 0.5–1 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Useful advice
Containers: summer selection
Bedding plants and displays
Growing plants in containers
Shade planting: annuals, bulbs and perennials
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.