Hidden in a remote part of Tibet in the Himalayas lies the world's deepest canyon, the Tsangpo gorge.  This uninhabited valley is teeming with exotic plants, many never seen before in the West.  In 2003, explorers here discovered the bluest Impatiens species - Impatiens namchabarwensis - the "True Blue" Impatiens.  Named for its mountain homeland, Mt. Namcha-Barwa, it is a beautiful species that happens to be easy to grow!  It is rarely seen for sale.

It grows vigorously to about 18 inches tall and wide.  When grown outdoors, it tends to be an annual plant, while indoors it's a short-lived perennial.  It flowers practically non-stop all year for me!  The flower color can vary depending on the growing conditions from a violet-blue to an almost true blue.  They have a contrasting white throat, and have interesting yellow and red markings both inside and outside the blooms.  The 1½ inch flowers share a "bird-like" resemblance to my Impatiens arguta.  Both species grow near each other on Mt. Namcha Barwa.  You might be able to cross-breed this species with some of my other Impatiens to create exciting new hybrids!

It's happiest when grown between 50 and 85 degrees F (10-29°C), with nights that are cool.  There are several reports of it tolerating hot conditions with warm nights, but it should still be considered experimental in warm climates.  Freezing temperatures will kill it, although it can reseed itself.  It grows well in filtered sunlight or morning sun + bright shade.  Protect it from strong sun.  Like most Impatiens, it enjoys fertile, well-draining soil that's kept evenly moist.  Over about 40% humidity is best.  In the right conditions, it is a fast grower, and a very heavy bloomer! 

Photo #1 used with permission of Egil J. Skarning

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