Impatiens

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iImpatiens

Himalayan Balsam

Scientific classification

Kingdom:	Plantae
Division:	Magnoliophyta
Class:	Magnoliopsida
Order:	Ericales
Family:	Balsaminaceae
Genus:	Impatiens

Species

See text

Impatiens namchabarwensis

Impatiens rosulata

Impatiens parviflora

Impatiens is a genus of about 900-1000 species of flowering plants in the family Balsaminaceae. The genus has a wide distribution throughout the northern hemisphere and tropics, although they are not found in South America.

Some species are annual plants and produce flowers from early summer until the first frost, while perennial species, found in milder climates, can flower all year. They can exist both in, and out, of direct sunlight. Some Impatiens hybrids have commercial importance as garden plants with a yearly business volume of about US $230 million.

Major common names for one or more species include balsam, jewelweed and busy lizzie.

The plant derives its scientific name Impatiens ("impatient") and the common name "touch-me-not" from the plant's seed pods. When the seed pods mature, they "explode" when touched, sending seeds several metres away. This mechanism is also known as "explosive dehiscence". See also Rapid plant movement.