Plant Profile: Impatiens balsamina

Garden Balsam, a delicate annual sensitive to frost, typically grows to about 30 inches in height, although it often surpasses this in its natural habitat. This plant is particularly well-suited for pots and for lining walkways or paths. Its flowers, shaped like cups, bloom in various colors, including white, pink, red, and a striking bicolor option. Garden Balsam thrives in moist environments and does not tolerate drought well.

Each flower contains both male and female reproductive parts, making them reliant on insects for pollination. The seeds can be dispersed unintentionally when the capsules burst open, scattering them away from the parent plant. Collecting seeds can be challenging, as the capsules are sensitive and may explode during handling.

In terms of pests, diseases, and other issues, the plant's propensity to self-seed can result in it becoming weedy and spreading uncontrollably.