"What a crazy plant!"

The Parrot Impatiens (Impatiens niamniamensis) is an evergreen, perennial species that usually grows 2 to 3 feet tall, but potentially to 4 feet.  It has a handsome "bonsai tree" look, thanks to its stocky growth and brown stems that resemble wood.  The stems are actually succulent and flexible, like other Impatiens.  The big attraction of course are the bright, shrimp-shaped blooms, which appear almost constantly throughout the year!  The large, 1½ inch blooms are scarlet red and yellow, with a lime green hood.  The red almost looks brushed on with paint.  These exotic blooms emerge from all over the plant, even on the "old wood".  You won't believe how many flowers this plant puts out!  Kip in Ohio says, "Your photos don't do the plant justice - the blooms are amazing!"

The Parrot Impatiens comes from tropical Africa and prefers temperatures above 45°F (7°C).  It can survive down to about 35°F (2°C), but it cannot take any frost.  Fortunately it grows well indoors in a pot.  It makes a wonderful, upbeat houseplant!  It prefers bright shade or filtered sunlight - protect it from strong afternoon sun exposure.  Like most Impatiens, it enjoys moist, well-draining soil, regular feeding, and at least about 40% humidity.  Overall, it is an easy, low-maintenance plant.

Detailed growing tips about this plant