Impatiens hawkeri
Impatiens hawkeriUSDA | Grow Zone
10-11Outdoors all year in zones 10 to 11. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 50°F.
- Light
- Bright, indirect
- Water
- When top inch is dry
- Humidity
- 50-70%
- Temperature
- 65-75°F (18-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 12-24 in tall, 12-18 in wide
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets and children
Impatiens hawkeri, commonly known as New Guinea impatiens, is prized for its colorful blooms and lush foliage. Native to Papua New Guinea, this plant thrives in shaded areas, making it a popular choice for gardens and containers.
Ask Vesper about Impatiens hawkeri
Ideal temperature
65-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 50°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 12-24 in tall, 12-18 in wide
- Plant apart
- 12-18 in
- Frost
- Tender: no frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Impatiens hawkeri prefers consistently moist soil, so water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
During the growing season, water every 2-3 days, adjusting frequency based on humidity and temperature. In cooler months, reduce watering to once a week. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause wilting and leaf drop.
Light
This plant thrives in partial shade, ideally receiving 4-6 hours of filtered sunlight daily.
Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it's best to place it in a location with bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some morning sun but should be protected from harsh afternoon rays.
Soil
Impatiens hawkeri prefers well-draining, rich soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
A mix of potting soil with peat moss and perlite is recommended to ensure good drainage and aeration. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture.
Humidity
This plant enjoys high humidity levels, ideally between 50-70%.
To increase humidity, consider misting the leaves regularly or placing a humidity tray filled with water and pebbles beneath the pot. Signs of low humidity include browning leaf edges and wilting.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Impatiens hawkeri is 65-75°F (18-24°C).
It is not frost-tolerant and should be kept above 50°F (10°C). This plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 10-11, and extreme heat can cause stress, so provide shade during hot spells.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 20-20-20 every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Reduce fertilization in the fall and winter months. Signs of nutrient deficiency include pale leaves and poor growth.
Pruning
Prune Impatiens hawkeri in early spring to promote bushier growth and remove any dead or damaged leaves.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears for best results. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage more blooms throughout the growing season.
Repotting
Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound, indicated by roots growing out of the drainage holes.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Carefully remove the plant from its current pot, loosen the roots, and place it in fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Propagation can be achieved through stem cuttings.
Take 4-6 inch cuttings from healthy plants in spring or early summer, remove the lower leaves, and place them in a moist potting mix. Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid environment until roots develop, which usually takes 2-4 weeks.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture and reduce watering frequency. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer if nutrient deficiency is suspected.
Wilting
Why it happens
Under-watering or low humidity.
How to fix it
Water the plant thoroughly and increase humidity levels by misting or using a humidity tray.
Browning leaf edges
Why it happens
Low humidity or exposure to direct sunlight.
How to fix it
Increase humidity around the plant and ensure it is placed in a location with filtered light.
Root rot
Why it happens
Over-watering or poor drainage.
How to fix it
Allow the soil to dry out before watering again and ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes.
Pest infestations (aphids, spider mites)
Why it happens
Poor air circulation and high humidity.
How to fix it
Inspect plants regularly, and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, begin fertilizing every 4-6 weeks and prune to encourage bushy growth. Monitor for pests as temperatures rise.
Summer
During summer, ensure consistent watering and increase humidity. Watch for signs of heat stress and provide shade during peak sun hours.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering frequency as growth slows. Continue to monitor for pests and prepare the plant for cooler temperatures.
Winter
In winter, reduce fertilization and water less frequently. Keep the plant in a warm location, avoiding drafts and cold windows.
Toxicity & Safety
Impatiens hawkeri is considered non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Always monitor pets and children around plants.
Good to know
How often should I water my Impatiens hawkeri?
Water your Impatiens hawkeri every 2-3 days during the growing season, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Why are my Impatiens hawkeri leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves can indicate over-watering or a nutrient deficiency. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
What light conditions are best for Impatiens hawkeri?
Impatiens hawkeri thrives in partial shade, ideally receiving 4-6 hours of filtered sunlight daily to prevent leaf scorch.
Can I propagate Impatiens hawkeri from cuttings?
Yes, you can propagate Impatiens hawkeri through stem cuttings taken in spring or early summer. Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid environment until roots develop.
What should I do if my Impatiens hawkeri is wilting?
Wilting can result from under-watering or low humidity. Water the plant thoroughly and consider increasing humidity levels around it.
When is the best time to prune Impatiens hawkeri?
The best time to prune Impatiens hawkeri is in early spring to promote bushier growth and remove any dead or damaged leaves.
What type of fertilizer is best for Impatiens hawkeri?
A balanced liquid fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 20-20-20 is ideal for Impatiens hawkeri, applied every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
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