Description
Impatiens (Impatiens walleriana), also known as Busy Lizzie, is a popular flowering annual prized for its vibrant blooms and ability to thrive in shaded areas. Known for their cheerful colors, impatiens produce continuous blooms from late spring to the first frost in shades of pink, red, purple, white, and orange. These compact, bushy plants are a favorite for adding bursts of color to garden beds, borders, containers, and hanging baskets, especially in shaded or partially shaded areas where many other plants may struggle.
Impatiens typically grow 6 to 18 inches tall, forming a dense mound of foliage that provides a lush backdrop for their flowers. They thrive in USDA zones 10-11 as perennials, but in most regions, they are grown as annuals. Impatiens prefer well-draining, moist soil enriched with organic matter and benefit from consistent watering, as they can wilt quickly in dry soil. They perform best in partial to full shade, making them a perfect choice for gardens with dappled light or low-light spots.
Low-maintenance and easy to grow, impatiens benefit from regular watering and occasional fertilizing to keep them blooming throughout the season. Deadheading is not necessary, as they are self-cleaning, making them ideal for gardeners seeking a fuss-free, colorful addition to the landscape. Resistant to deer and generally pest-free, impatiens bring continuous color and a soft, lush texture to gardens, making them a go-to choice for shaded landscapes, containers, and as a bright filler in mixed plantings.