Impatiens

Impatiens is a large genus of flowering plants in the family Balsaminaceae.

Impatiens is a large genus of flowering plants in the family Balsaminaceae. It includes more than 1,000 species, with a broad distribution across the Northern Hemisphere and tropical regions. Many species are grown as ornamental garden plants, especially in shaded areas.

Taxonomy

Impatiens is a genus in the family Balsaminaceae. Sources describe the genus as very large, with more than 1,000 recognized species, although counts vary slightly by reference.

Distribution and habitat

The genus is broadly distributed across Asia, Africa, North America, the Northern Hemisphere, and tropical regions. Some species are native to eastern Africa, while others occur widely in Asia and the Americas.

Characteristics

Impatiens species are typically herbaceous plants with simple leaves and irregular flowers that arise from leaf axils. Their seedpods are notable for bursting open readily, which helps spread the seeds.

Cultivation

Several species are popular ornamental plants and are often grown in gardens, containers, or as houseplants. They are especially associated with shady or partially shaded planting sites.