What are Impatiens?
Impatiens are a popular bedding plant that perform well in shade to part sun exposure in most growing zones. Primarily an annual, their popularity stems from the wide range of color and intensity they provide and because they bloom most of the growing season. Impatiens have darker green foliage set off by vibrant, but delicate petals, which may be single or double. Their height ranges an average of 6 inches (15.2 cm) to 18 inches (45.7 cm). As a bedding plant, impatiens provide a colorful border or filler for flowerbeds, window boxes, urns, tree borders, and mounds. They prefer only some sun and while they can be grown in full sun with careful attention to watering, impatiens perform best in areas with afternoon shade, making east-facing locations ideal. When growing impatiens from seed, they should be started indoors and planted after the threat of hard frost. There are a wide range of colors available from white to red to deep purples, pinks, and salmon. There are several varieties o