Impatiens
Impatiens wallerana (Impatiens), also known as Busy Lizzie, is one of the most versatile flowering plants for shade. Use it for color under shrubs, along walkways, and tucked into corners by entrance ways. Impatiens also grows readily in containers and window boxes, and provides color in hanging baskets under eaves.
Impatiens is grown as an annual, and enjoys dense to light shade. The plants bloom continually from transplanting to the first fall frost, with showy single or double flowers in shades of pink, magenta, mauve, salmon, orange, and white. Bicolored flowers are also popular. The glossy, dark green leaves frequently have a bronze hue. The erect succulent stems, 6 to 18 inches tall, are very sensitive, and wilt easily as the soil dries. Water impatiens regularly, especially in hot weather, to keep the soil moist. Fertilize lightly each month with a complete fertilizer.
Impatiens grows easily from seed when started indoors 10 to 12 weeks before planting outdoors. It also transplants well from nursery packs. For bushier plants, cut them back by a third when planting. Set the plants 10 to 15 inches apart. Impatiens grows best in well-drained, sandy soil that is high in organic matter.
A new type pe of impatiens, New Guinea impatiens, is available with bicolored foliage and flowers. It does best in light shade but tolerates full sun.
