Impatiens walleriana ‘Super Elfin’ & ‘Accent’ Series

Nicknamed ‘Busy Lizzie’ in England, and also commonly referred to as Balsam, Impatiens are native to East Africa and are a part of the family Balsaminacea, containing 1000 flowering species. They are the most popular bedding plant in North America due to their ease of care, and ability to flower seemingly endlessly in low light conditions. Impatiens walleriana are perennials in Sunset Climate Zones 17, 24, H1, and H2. They are mostly grown as an annual, even though they are an herbaceous perennial, and can live for several years in mild winter climates. The leaves are shiny, lanceolate, and dark green colored.

The flowers are characteristically flat faced, have five petals and grow 1-2 inches wide. The ‘Super Elfin’ series comes in an exceptionally wide range of colors, each harmonizing with the others. They love to grow in moist, (not soggy) rich soil, in part to full shade. Space at least 6” apart when planting to allow for spread. Cut back old blooms to encourage new growth. If you have ever experienced Impatiens Downy Mildew (IDM) in any of your beds, it is best to choose a different shade loving plant such as Begonias to plant in that bed. Although not as widely problematic as in years past, IDM can survive in soil beds for up to three years.

We are currently growing Impatiens walleriana ‘Super Elfin’ and ‘Accent’ series in 6 pack flats. They both grow 8-10 inches tall and will bloom from spring through early fall. Give us a call, ‘Like’ us on Facebook, or visit our website www.clearwatercolor.com to learn more about these and other plants we are growing!