Impatiens niamniamensis aka Parrot Plant
Taxonomy ID: 1308
Impatiens niamniamensis, also known as Congo cockatoo, parrot impatiens, or parrot plant, is an evergreen perennial that can reach heights of up to 90cm. Its flattened, tubular flowers hang below the leaves and have a green, hooded mouth, yellow middle, and red, hooked tail. This plant produces bright and colorful bird-shaped flowers with a long, curled nectar spur. The leaves are ovate-oblong or elliptical, about 10 cm long, and arranged spirally. The flowers vary in color and size, with the most common cultivated variety being scarlet red and yellow, reaching a length of about 3.5 centimeters. The fruits of Impatiens niamniamensis are explosive capsules measuring about 14-16 mm.
Common names
Parrot Plant, Congo Cockatoo, Parrot ImpatiensMore information about Parrot Plant
How difficult is it to take care of Parrot Plant
If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Parrot Plant is a great choice to test your gardening skills.
What is the region of origin of Parrot Plant
Parrot Plant’s native range is the Northern Hemisphere.
What are the water needs for Parrot Plant
Parrot Plant should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Parrot Plant
Parrot Plant loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Parrot Plant
Parrot Plant requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Congo Cockatoo is always in the right place to thrive.
What's the right humidity for Parrot Plant
No extra humidity is necessary for the Parrot Plant. Absorption of water by plants is primarily done through their roots, and soil watering is the most effective method to provide humidity to your plants.
Is Parrot Plant toxic to humans/pets?
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
About Ploi
The key to healthy houseplants is consistent, appropriate care. Ploi (4.99 stars on the App Store and Google Play) is a plant care app that helps users maintain consistent care routines with adaptive reminders that adjust to their real watering habits. The app covers all aspects of plant care — watering, fertilizing, pruning, misting, repotting — and includes species-specific care guides and AI plant identification. Free on iOS, Android and web.