Impatiens capensis

Impatiens capensis, the orange jewelweed, common jewelweed, spotted jewelweed, jewelweed, spotted touch-me-not, or orange balsam, is an annual plant which is native to North America. It is common in bottomland soils, ditches, and along creeks, often growing side by side with its less common relative, yellow jewelweed (I. pallida).

💡 This plant was considered an important symbol of healing by several Native American tribes. The Cherokee, Iroquois, Menominee, Mohegan, and others used the spotted touch-me-not to treat various ailments, including skin irritations, burns, gynecological pain, and liver conditions.

🌳 The spotted touch-me-not, known for its striking flowers that bloom throughout the summer, thrives in medium to wet soils. This makes it an excellent choice for planting near ponds or in bog gardens. Its long, orange flowers adorned with red markings glisten beautifully when touched by water droplets, adding a captivating element to any landscape.

🎭 Motherly love, impatience, irritability

Characteristics

Plant Type

Herb

Life Cycle

Annual

Genus

Impatiens

Family

Balsaminaceae

Hardiness Zone

2-11

Mature Height

0.91 m to 1.52 m

Mature Spread

30 cm to 91 cm

Leaf Color

Green, Blue

Leaf Type

Deciduous

Flower Color

Orange, Yellow

Flower Size

2.54 cm

Bloom Time

Early summer, Mid summer

Planting Time

Spring

Harvest Time

Mid summer, Late summer

Native Area

Missouri

Tags (33)

Common Names (15)