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This is a close look at the rare Impatiens grandis. This exotic species comes from southern India and Sri Lanka, where it is becoming endangered. Its large, orchid-like blossoms have bold splashes of peppermint red across pure-white petals. Even without blooms this is a first-rate foliage plant. Its oversized leaves are unusually thick and robust, and the entire plant can grow to 5 feet tall! The plant is uncommon in cultivation and rarely seen for sale. Impatiens grandis is an evergreen, perennial species with an upright, tree-like shape and rigid stems. The plant has a husky appearance, with little resemblance to typical Impatiens. The blooms appear the heaviest in winter, with occasional blooms other times of the year. The 2-inch long flowers appear at the top of the plant, which puts them at the right height for viewing! Their ribbon-like petals have pinkish-red markings that almost look sprayed on! The curved spur in back is thick and well-proportioned, giving a nice finishing touch to the blooms. This is a true species, not a cultivated hybrid. Impatiens grandis comes from highland forests, where the climate is mild all year. Preferred temperatures are between 55 and 80°F (13-27°C). It can tolerate warmer temperatures if nights are cool, but it probably won't bloom in those conditions. Consistently warm temperatures with warm nights, such as in Florida, might stress it. It can go deciduous below 45°F (7°C), and it must have protection from freezing temperatures. It does wonderfully indoors in a pot. It enjoys filtered sunlight, or morning sun + bright shade. Protect it from strong sun exposure. Like most Impatiens, it likes well-draining soil that's kept evenly moist. Over about 40% humidity is best. In the right conditions, it's an easy plant that is rarely troubled by pests.
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