This is probably the first time you have seen this plant.  Impatiens usambarensis is a rare species from east Africa with screamin' pink flowers!  It is related to the common bedding Impatiens, however it grows much larger - up to 6 feet tall!  This beauty is found only in a small section of Tanzania, in the rainforests of the Usambara mountains, for which it is named.  It is an easy-to-grow and very attractive plant that is rarely seen in cultivation.

Impatiens usambarensis is a vigorous perennial species with an upright, bush-like growth habit.  The branches and leaf stems are an attractive shade of red.  The plant flowers practically all year for me.  The blooms are 2 inches across and are an intense shade of fuchsia or hot pink that is difficult to capture in pictures.  This is a true species, not a hybrid.  You may be able to cross-breed it with some other Impatiens to create new and exciting varieties!

Impatiens usambarensis comes from a climate that is mild all year.  I know it can handle temperatures in the 80s (30°C), however it is untested in warmer areas like Florida.  It should do fine wherever the common Impatiens walleriana is grown, since they come from similar areas in Africa.  The plant probably has a few degrees of frost tolerance since it can grow back from the base, but i recommend protecting it from temperatures below 35° F (1°C).  It grows well indoors as a houseplant.  It can handle more sun than most Impatiens, however it should be protected from strong afternoon sun.  Filtered sun or bright shade + morning sun would be ideal.  Like most Impatiens, it enjoys rich, well-draining soil, and regular watering & feeding.  Over about 40% humidity is recommended.

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Growing tips for this plant