Buzzy Lizzy
Impatiens wallerianaUSDA | Grow Zone
10-11Outdoors all year in zones 10 to 11. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 50°F.
- Light
- Partial shade
- 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 walleriana, commonly known as Buzzy Lizzy, is a popular flowering plant admired for its vibrant blooms and lush foliage. Native to East Africa, it thrives in shady environments, making it a favorite for gardens and containers.
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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 walleriana prefers consistently moist soil, so water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
During the growing season, water every 2-3 days, ensuring the soil is evenly moist but not soggy. In cooler months, reduce watering to once a week. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering can cause wilting and leaf drop.
Light
This plant thrives in partial shade, ideally receiving 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight daily.
Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light may hinder blooming. A location near a north or east-facing window is often ideal.
Soil
Impatiens prefer a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
A mix of peat moss, perlite, and compost is recommended to ensure good drainage and aeration.
Humidity
Impatiens walleriana enjoys high humidity levels of 50-70%.
To increase humidity, consider misting the leaves regularly or placing a humidifier nearby. Signs of low humidity include browning leaf edges and wilting.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Impatiens is 65-75°F (18-24°C).
They are sensitive to cold and should be protected from temperatures below 50°F (10°C). They thrive in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 20-20-20 every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Reduce feeding in fall and winter. Signs of nutrient deficiency include pale leaves and poor flowering.
Pruning
Prune Impatiens in early spring to encourage bushy growth and remove any dead or damaged leaves.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Deadheading spent blooms can also promote continuous flowering.
Repotting
Repot Impatiens every 1-2 years or when they outgrow their pot.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Signs that repotting is needed include roots growing out of drainage holes and stunted growth. Carefully remove the plant from its pot, loosen the roots, and place it in fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Propagation can be done through stem cuttings.
Take 4-6 inch cuttings from healthy plants in spring, 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 adjust watering schedule. Fertilize if nutrient deficiency is suspected.
Wilting
Why it happens
Under-watering or root rot.
How to fix it
Water the plant thoroughly and check for root rot. If roots are mushy, repot into fresh soil.
Browning leaf edges
Why it happens
Low humidity or underwatering.
How to fix it
Increase humidity through misting or a humidifier, and ensure consistent watering.
Poor blooming
Why it happens
Insufficient light or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Ensure the plant receives adequate indirect light and fertilize regularly.
Leaf spots
Why it happens
Fungal diseases due to high humidity and poor air circulation.
How to fix it
Improve air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering. Treat with a fungicide if necessary.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, repot your Impatiens if needed and begin fertilizing every 4-6 weeks as they start to grow actively.
Summer
During summer, maintain consistent moisture and provide partial shade to prevent leaf scorch. Regularly deadhead spent flowers.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering as temperatures drop, but continue to fertilize until growth slows. Prepare for potential indoor relocation.
Winter
In winter, keep the plant in a warm location and reduce watering frequency. Avoid fertilizing until spring.
Toxicity & Safety
Impatiens walleriana is non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
Good to know
Why are my Impatiens leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves on Impatiens can indicate over-watering or a nutrient deficiency. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
How often should I water my Impatiens?
Water your Impatiens every 2-3 days during the growing season, ensuring the top inch of soil is dry before watering again.
What light conditions do Impatiens prefer?
Impatiens thrive in partial shade, ideally receiving 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight daily to prevent leaf scorch.
How can I increase humidity for my Impatiens?
To increase humidity, mist the leaves regularly or use a humidifier nearby. Keeping the plant in a bathroom or kitchen can also help.
When should I prune my Impatiens?
Prune your Impatiens in early spring to encourage bushy growth and remove any dead or damaged leaves.
How do I propagate Impatiens?
Impatiens can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take cuttings in spring, place them in moist potting mix, and keep them warm and humid until roots develop.
What should I do if my Impatiens are wilting?
Wilting can be a sign of under-watering or root rot. Water the plant thoroughly and check the roots for any signs of rot.
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