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Balsam 'Topknot Mix' (Impatiens balsamina) is a charming, old-fashioned garden favorite that brings a distinct vertical element to the summer landscape. Unlike traditional Impatiens, Balsam produces its blooms along the central stem, tucked among the leaves, with the 'Topknot' series specifically bred to showcase its double, camellia-like flowers at the very top of the plant. This mix offers a vibrant array of colors, including brilliant shades of scarlet, rose, salmon, white, and violet.
Mature size: 12 to 18 inches in height; 10 to 12 inches in spread.
Flower: Large, double blooms resembling miniature roses or camellias; colors include red, pink, purple, and bi-colors.
Foliage: Bright green, succulent-like stems with long, lance-shaped, serrated leaves.
Hardiness: Tender annual; sensitive to frost (USDA zones 2–11).
Full Sun to Part Shade. While it thrives in sun, in particularly hot climates, it benefits from afternoon shade to prevent the succulent stems from wilting. It is more sun-tolerant than the common Impatiens walleriana.
Requires regular, consistent watering. Balsam has high water needs due to its juicy, succulent stems. The soil should remain consistently moist; however, ensure the plant is not sitting in stagnant water, which can lead to stem rot.
Prefers rich, organic, well-drained soil. It performs best in a loamy environment enriched with compost. While it loves moisture, excellent drainage is necessary to maintain the health of the root system and the thick, fleshy stalks.
Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2 weeks. Because it is a fast-growing annual that produces flowers along the length of its stems, it requires a steady supply of nutrients to sustain its heavy bloom cycle.
Balsam is relatively low-maintenance but benefits from the removal of spent flowers to keep the plant looking tidy. A unique feature of this plant is its seed pods, which "explode" when touched (earning it the name "Touch-Me-Not"); if you wish to prevent self-seeding, remove these pods before they ripen.
The upright, uniform habit of 'Topknot Mix' makes it an excellent choice for middle-of-the-border plantings or as a colorful container filler. It is a fantastic plant for children's gardens due to the fun, exploding seed pods. Its Victorian aesthetic makes it a staple for cottage gardens and heirloom-themed landscapes.
Balsam 'Topknot Mix' is a nostalgic, high-performing annual that provides an abundance of rose-like blooms in a compact, vertical form. Its ease of growth from seed and reliable color make it a delightful addition to any garden looking for a touch of vintage charm.
NOTE: Available for pickup after 5/15
Balsam 'Topknot Mix' (Impatiens balsamina) is a charming, old-fashioned garden favorite that brings a distinct vertical element to the summer landscape. Unlike traditional Impatiens, Balsam produces its blooms along the central stem, tucked among the leaves, with the 'Topknot' series specifically bred to showcase its double, camellia-like flowers at the very top of the plant. This mix offers a vibrant array of colors, including brilliant shades of scarlet, rose, salmon, white, and violet.
Mature size: 12 to 18 inches in height; 10 to 12 inches in spread.
Flower: Large, double blooms resembling miniature roses or camellias; colors include red, pink, purple, and bi-colors.
Foliage: Bright green, succulent-like stems with long, lance-shaped, serrated leaves.
Hardiness: Tender annual; sensitive to frost (USDA zones 2–11).
Full Sun to Part Shade. While it thrives in sun, in particularly hot climates, it benefits from afternoon shade to prevent the succulent stems from wilting. It is more sun-tolerant than the common Impatiens walleriana.
Requires regular, consistent watering. Balsam has high water needs due to its juicy, succulent stems. The soil should remain consistently moist; however, ensure the plant is not sitting in stagnant water, which can lead to stem rot.
Prefers rich, organic, well-drained soil. It performs best in a loamy environment enriched with compost. While it loves moisture, excellent drainage is necessary to maintain the health of the root system and the thick, fleshy stalks.
Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2 weeks. Because it is a fast-growing annual that produces flowers along the length of its stems, it requires a steady supply of nutrients to sustain its heavy bloom cycle.
Balsam is relatively low-maintenance but benefits from the removal of spent flowers to keep the plant looking tidy. A unique feature of this plant is its seed pods, which "explode" when touched (earning it the name "Touch-Me-Not"); if you wish to prevent self-seeding, remove these pods before they ripen.
The upright, uniform habit of 'Topknot Mix' makes it an excellent choice for middle-of-the-border plantings or as a colorful container filler. It is a fantastic plant for children's gardens due to the fun, exploding seed pods. Its Victorian aesthetic makes it a staple for cottage gardens and heirloom-themed landscapes.
Balsam 'Topknot Mix' is a nostalgic, high-performing annual that provides an abundance of rose-like blooms in a compact, vertical form. Its ease of growth from seed and reliable color make it a delightful addition to any garden looking for a touch of vintage charm.
NOTE: Available for pickup after 5/15