Jewelweed

Impatiens capensis (im-PAY-shuns ka-PEN-sis)

Family: Balsaminaceae Native Herbaceous (3-15 ft)

Jewelweed is an annual and native wildflower to Canada and the North, Central, and Eastern United States. It is commonly found in swampy areas, low woodlands, thickets, bogs, or along streams. It may grow from 2 to 5 feet tall and 1 to 3 feet wide. The jewelweed has a unique and beautiful orange to orange-yellow flower with dark splotches of reddish-brown that appear in clusters of 1 to 3 blooms. The genus name, Impatiens , is Latin, meaning "impatient." Its meaning is derived from the explosive manner in which the fruit capsules release their ripe seeds. The specific epithet, capensis , means "of the Cape." The reference is unclear; the botanist may have thought the plant originated elsewhere. Dew or rain beads up on the leaves, forming sparkling droplets that give rise to the common name of jewelweed. It is a member of the balsam family (Balsaminaceae). Prefers partial to full shade and moist to wet, humus soils. It is winter hardy from zones 2 to 11 and is tolerant of heavy shade and clay soil. Jewelweed is easily propagated by seeds that may be sown in early fall. This plant is quite aggressive and can form large colonies by self-seeding under its required growing conditions. The stem is somewhat translucent, brittle, and pale green to pale greenish-red. The bluish-green, oval-shaped leaves are alternately arranged with a toothed margin. The flowers appear from the axils of the upper leaves on drooping stalks. The flowers are two-lipped, having 5 petals and 3 sepals. Each flower consists of a pouch-like structure with a long spur, and blooms from June to September, attracting hummingbirds and insects. The fruit produced is a capsule that pops open at maturity, dispersing the seeds. Jewelweed makes a beautiful addition to a native garden. Other garden uses include moist shade or woodland gardens, bog gardens, pond or stream margins, and in low spots. Insects, Diseases, or Other Plant Problems: No significant insect or disease issues. This plant can prolifically self-seed. In 2018, this plant was labeled a noxious weed in the State of Washington. It had spread rapidly in the lowland areas, forming dense carpets and competing with native species.

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 72 attributes.