Impatiens capensis | Jewelweed

Description: Impatiens capensis, commonly known as jewelweed or spotted touch-me-not, is a vibrant annual plant native to North America, often found in moist, shaded areas like wetlands, riverbanks, and woodland edges. It typically grows to about 2 to 5 feet tall, with succulent, translucent stems that are easy to crush. The leaves are oval with toothed edges and appear to shimmer when wet, hence the name jewelweed. Its distinctive, pendulous, orange flowers with dark red or brown spots bloom from midsummer to early fall. The flowers have a tubular shape with a curved spur at the back, making them attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators. After flowering, the plant produces seed capsules that explosively burst open when touched, scattering seeds up to several feet away, a characteristic that gives it the name touch-me-not. Jewelweed is also known for its traditional use in herbal remedies, particularly for relieving skin irritations like poison ivy. It thrives in rich, moist soils and prefers partial shade. Annual Germination Impatiens capensis seeds, known for their explosive dispersal, can be germinated with relative ease under the right conditions. Begin by collecting seeds in late summer or early fall when the seed capsules are mature but before they burst. Sow the seeds on the surface of moist, well-draining soil, as they need light to germinate, do not bury them. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and maintain a temperature between 15-20°C (59-68°F). Germination typically occurs within 1 to 3 weeks. Once the seedlings have established, they should be gradually exposed to more light and can be transplanted to their permanent location, preferably in moist, shaded areas where the plants naturally thrive.

Price: 14.79 USD

Location: San Francisco, California

End Time: 2024-11-06T17:53:36.000Z

Shipping Cost: 0 USD