Impatiens tingens

At a glance

Lifecycle: Annual
Exposure: Full sun

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know it it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of the country. This species is quite possibly no more than a synonym of I. racemosa. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in any reasonably good soil. This plant has seed capsules that spring open forcibly as the seed ripens to eject the seed a considerable distance. The capsules are sensitive to touch even before the seed is ripe, making seed collection difficult but fun[K].

Propagation

Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer.

Edible uses

Seed. No further details are given but the seeds are difficult to harvest in quantity, mainly because of their exploding seed capsules which scatter the ripe seed at the slightest touch[K].

Habitat

Not known

Native range

E. Asia - Himalayas from Simla to Sikkim at elevations from 1,500 - 3,000 metres.