Small balsam
Impatiens parviflora · Balsaminaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant small balsam: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Small-flowered balsam
- Family
- Balsaminaceae
- Form
- Annual or perennial herbaceous plant depending on climate
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm tall
- Flowering
- May to October, small pale yellow flowers
- Foliage
- Deciduous, tender green, semi-evergreen in mild climates
- Hardiness
- Low hardiness, frost-sensitive below 0°C
- Origin
- Central Asia (Himalayas, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan)
Care
Light
Prefer a position in partial shade to dappled shade. This plant tolerates dense shade but flowers less abundantly in direct full sun. It appreciates bright spots but protected from the burning rays of summer sun.
Watering
Keep the substrate constantly moist without waterlogging. Water regularly especially during growth and flowering periods. Reduce watering in winter if the plant persists in a mild climate, but never let the soil dry out completely.
Soil and substrate
Use rich, well-draining potting soil enriched with organic matter. Small-flowered balsam appreciates light, slightly acidic soils. Add compost or mulch to retain moisture.
Fertiliser
Apply balanced fertiliser diluted every 15 days during growth and flowering periods. Reduce or stop applications in autumn and winter. Excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch young stems regularly to encourage compact, branched growth. Remove spent flowers to extend blooming. In late winter, cut back the plant if it becomes too leggy.
Pests and diseases
Watch for spider mites and aphids, particularly in dry air. Powdery mildew can appear in warm, humid conditions; ensure good air circulation around the plant. Root rot is possible with prolonged excessive moisture.
Did you know?
Small-flowered balsam is one of the most aggressive invasive plants in Western Europe, capable of rapidly colonising wet banks and woodlands. This Asian species, accidentally introduced to England in the 19th century, has spread naturally and has become a major ecological management issue in several countries. Its exploding fruits, which project seeds up to 5 metres away, allow it spectacular reproduction and very effective seed dispersal.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Himalayan balsamImpatiens glandulifera
- Touch-me-notImpatiens noli-tangere
- Cape balsamImpatiens capensis
- Pale jewelweedImpatiens pallida
- Balfour's impatiensImpatiens balfourii
- CamelliaCamellia japonica
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.