This beautiful Vietnamese Impatiens species was discovered in the forests of Northern Vietnam.  It's a striking plant, not just for its exotic blooms, but also its robust growth habit and unusual leaves, which have little resemblance to typical Impatiens.  It blooms almost constantly throughout the year and makes a great show plant!  This might be a form of Impatiens clavigera, or it could be a new species related to it.  It is extremely rare - I don't know anyone else offering it.

It is a perennial species with rigid stems and an upright habit, growing to about 2 feet tall.  The older stems become woody at the base, which is pretty strange for Impatiens.  Its sturdy design helps the plant withstand heavy rainfall.  The robust leaves grow 6 inches long and are thick, glossy, and deeply ribbed.  The bird-shaped blossoms dangle from 6 inch long panicles almost all year for me.  These inflated blooms are just under 2 inches long, and have pretty pink & yellow markings inside.  You might be able to cross-breed this species with some other Impatiens to create new hybrids.

It grows well for me between 55 and 80 degrees F (13-27°C).  Since it comes from a milder climate, i suspect it might lag if temps are consistently hot, especially if nights are warm.  It needs protection from frost.  Like most Impatiens, it enjoys fertile, well-draining soil that's kept evenly moist.  It uses a lot of water, so be careful not to let it dry out.  It likes bright, filtered light or weaker sun.  Shade it from strong sun or it may wilt.  Over about 40% humidity is best.  In the right conditions, it is an easy and vigorous plant.

Check availability