Impatiens are bright flowers that grow well in shady places. But do they come back every year? That depends on the type and where you live.
What Are Annuals and Perennials?
Annuals grow, bloom, and die in one year. Perennials live for many years. Their tops may die in winter, but they grow back in spring.
Are Impatiens Annuals?
Most impatiens are annuals. They bloom for one season and then die. But in warm places, some types can grow back.
Impatiens That Can Be Perennials
Some impatiens can live longer in warm areas:
- New Guinea Impatiens: Usually grown as annuals. They have bigger flowers and leaves.
- SunPatiens®: Can grow in full sun and hot weather. They resist disease.
- Imara XDR Impatiens: Perennial in warm zones (10 and 11) but annual in colder areas.
- Bounce Impatiens: Can recover from wilting and grow well in heat.
What Affects Growth?
Climate affects how impatiens grow. In warm places, they may act like perennials. In cold places, they die in winter and need replanting.
Where Do Impatiens Grow?
There are over 850 types of impatiens. They grow in Africa, Asia, and North America, but not in Australia or South America.
Common Types of Impatiens
Here are some popular impatiens varieties:
| Type | Growth Style | Flower Size | Sun Needs | Disease Resistance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Impatiens walleriana | Bushy | Small | Shade | Low |
| New Guinea Impatiens | Bushy | Large | Some Sun | Moderate |
| SunPatiens® | Upright | Large | Full Sun | High |
| Balsam Impatiens | Upright | Medium | Shade | Moderate |
| Double Impatiens | Bushy | Medium | Shade | Moderate |
- Impatiens walleriana: Also called “Busy Lizzie.” Grows lots of flowers but can get mildew.
- New Guinea Impatiens: Bigger flowers and leaves, can handle more sun.
- SunPatiens®: Grows well in full sun and resists disease.
- Balsam Impatiens: An old type with seed pods that pop when touched.
- Double Impatiens: Have extra petals, looking like tiny roses.
How to Grow Healthy Impatiens
To help impatiens grow well, follow these tips:
- Light: Most like shade, but New Guinea and SunPatiens® can handle sun.
- Soil: Use soft, rich soil that drains well.
- Water: Keep the soil moist, but don’t overwater.
- Fertilizer: Use plant food often, especially for potted impatiens.
Growing More Impatiens
You can grow impatiens from seeds or cuttings:
- Seeds: Sprinkle on moist soil. They sprout in 5-25 days.
- Cuttings: Cut a healthy stem and place it in water until roots appear.
Conclusion
Most impatiens are annuals, but some can live longer in warm areas. There are many types, from the common Busy Lizzie to the sun-loving SunPatiens®. Pick the right type for your garden. In warm places, impatiens may come back every year. In colder areas, enjoy them for one season and replant them next year.