Impatiens walleriana aka Busy Lizzy
Taxonomy ID: 6933
Impatiens walleriana, also known as Busy Lizzy, balsam, sultana, or simply impatiens, is a herbaceous plant native to eastern Africa from Kenya to Mozambique, and is a member of the Balsaminaceae family. The plant prefers to grow in tropical climates and can reach a height of up to 2 feet. Its shoots are adorned with pale red or dark green, wide, serrated leaves that are arranged alternately. The solitary flowers can be single or double and come in a wide variety of colors, except for blue and yellow shades. When the flowers fade, the plant produces a capsule-shaped fruit that opens easily after ripening, and many little seeds fall out. Impatiens walleriana is an annual bedding plant that does best in part shade to full shade. However, it is susceptible to downy mildew caused by the ‘fungus-like’ organism Plasmopara obducens. An alternative, Impatiens hawkeri, is resistant to downy mildew. The Latin specific epithet walleriana honours a British missionary, Horace Waller (1833–1896).
Common names
Busy Lizzy, Impatiens, Sultan's BalsamMore information about Busy Lizzy
How difficult is it to take care of Busy Lizzy
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Busy Lizzy, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
What is the region of origin of Busy Lizzy
Busy Lizzy’s native range is the Northern Hemisphere.
What are the water needs for Busy Lizzy
Busy Lizzy should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Busy Lizzy
Busy Lizzy 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 Busy Lizzy
Busy Lizzy thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Sultan's Balsam.
What's the right humidity for Busy Lizzy
No additional humidity is required for the Busy Lizzy. Plants take in most of their water through their roots, not their leaves, therefore, watering the soil is the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants.
Is Busy Lizzy toxic to humans/pets?
The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Impatiens Genus
Impatiens aurella Pale Yellow Touch Me Not

Impatiens balfourii Balfour's Touch Me Not

Impatiens niamniamensis Parrot Plant

Impatiens parviflora Balsam

Impatiens capensis Jewelweed
Impatiens mackeyana

Impatiens glandulifera Himalayan Balsam

Impatiens sodenii Shrub Balsam

Impatiens hawkeri Impatiens
