This is a terrific, new hybrid between Impatiens bicaudata and Impatiens auricoma, two unusual, rare species from Madagascar.  This is my own crossing, and it isn't available elsewhere.  Throughout the year, it makes loads of orangey blossoms that are shaped sort of like crested birds.  The plant is quite robust, growing 2 to 3 feet tall, and i find it easy to grow.  This is a great hybrid for collectors of strange & wonderful plants!

The hybrid is a perennial plant that takes on an upright, tree-like shape, with a sturdy main stem.  The flowers appear in clusters at the tops of the branches.  The hooded blossoms are about an inch tall and appear almost constantly when temperatures are in the right range.  The petal colors are various shades of orange, with hints of yellow and red.  The colors can get deeper or paler depending on the temperature.  If you wish, you can hybridize it with my pink Impatiens tuberosa to get pastel colors and a tuberous base, or backcross them to the parent plants.

Both parent plants come from a climate that is mild all year, with nights that are cool.  The hybrid hasn't been tested in a variety of climates, but it's possible it won't thrive in hot temperatures if nights are warm, although it might take hot days if nights are cool.  It needs protection from freezing temperatures.  Grow it in bright, filtered light or weaker sun, with protection from strong sun.  Like most Impatiens, it enjoys fertile, well-draining soil that's kept evenly moist.  Over about 40% humidity is best.

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