Impatiens morsei

Impatiens morsei is a subtropical plant from the Balsam family. Mature plants could form a bushy shrub, often not higher than 50 cm. The species produces several succulent, almost transparent stems that have a purple shine. Leaves are velvet and have a deep green base color. The veins are bright pink which gives a strong contrast with the leaves. In between the leaves, white flowers are formed. Flowers are bag-shaped and show a red and yellow pattern in the core, which makes it look like the flower of an orchid. Similar to many other species within this family, fruits could ‘explode’ as seed dispersal mechanism. This plant is propagated by cuttings or harvesting and sowing seeds

Impatiens morsei occurs in montane forests of southern China, between 500- and 1000-meter altitudes. This cool growing species is mostly grown under temperatures between 10 and 25 degrees Celsius. Cool temperatures are preferred, but this plant is not frost tolerant. This species could be grown in a warm location indoors or in large containers outside, when temperature allows. This plant does not require a high humidity but do not let it drop below 50%. Place this plant on a spot with bright indirect light. Direct sunlight in the morning or evening is recommended; prevent direct mid-day sun. The soil should be humus rich, airy and moist retaining. Water frequently, do not let the soil become bone dry in between waterings but do net water sit in the bottom of the pot. Fertilize this plant regularly. Use fertilizer for flowering plants every two weeks at the recommended strength.