Impatiens, New Guinea

I. hawkerii

In the vast genus of impatiens, this particular species has been domesticated over the years to become a widely popular annual. Native to the tropics, they differ from their I. Wallerana cousins in leaf size and color, plant habit and bloom size and color. Plant habit is overall more vigorous and robust, with longer, strappy leaves whose color can vary between solid green to variegated, depending on variety. Plants are covered with extra large flowers with overlapping petals, giving a lush tropical appearance to the plants.

New guinea impatiens from seed needs to be started indoors under warm conditions where the seedlings can develop strong and healthy root systems. Once established, they can be transplanted into packs or pots. After all danger of frost is past, they can be replanted in the greenhouse or outdoors into containers or hanging baskets, and are even suitable for garden beds. Most new guinea impatiens prefer partial shade.