Impatiens hawkeri

New Guinea impatiens is an herbaceous annual in the balsam family (Balsaminaceae), native to the Solomon Islands and New Guinea, that was introduced into the United States in the 1970s by plant collectors from the USDA and Longwood Gardens. The genus name comes from the Latin impatiens meaning impatient and refers to the sudden seed discharge from the ripe pods. The species epithet honors Lt. Hawker of the British Royal Navy, who collected the plant in Papua New Guinea in 1884. It has a mounding form and will grow 6 to 20 inches tall. It has multiple cultivars and is often confused with common impatiens.  

This impatiens plant will grow in full sun to deep shade but performs best in partial shade and in well-drained, moist soils supplemented with organic matter. The more sun it receives, the more water it will require. It is resistant to downy mildew. Propagate it by seed in soil that is 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit for successful germination. 

Its flowers come in a range of colors and bloom from spring through fall. Use New Guinea impatiens in hanging baskets and containers to accent a patio, poolside hardscape, or small space. In small groups the plant makes a colorful border, walkway, or foundation planting. It is stunning as a mass planting and attracts butterflies. 

Quick ID Hints:

• Flowers have a conspicuous, elongated spur.

• Lateral sepals are suborbicular, broad, and acuminate.

• Leaves have stalked glands on teeth rising above the leaf plane.

• Underside of the leaves is often red or purple.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No serious insect or disease problems. Some cultivars have shown good to excellent resistance to phytophthora and leaf spot. See Phytophthora Root and Crown Rot in the Landscape.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Annuals, Perennials, Vines, and Groundcovers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.