Plant guide

Orange jewelweed.

Impatiens capensis

Pronounced im-PAY-shenz ka-PEN-sis

Also known as Jewel-Weed, Jewelweed, Lady's-earrings, Orange Balsam, Orange Touch-me-not, Snapweed, Spotted Jewelweed, Spotted Touch-me-not

This charming native plant is famous for its bright orange, spotted flowers that dangle like little jewels. It loves damp, shaded spots and is a favorite for hummingbirds. You will often find it growing near streams or in moist woodland areas.

At a glance

Care level: Easy
Plant type: Annual
Light: Partial shade to full shade
Indoor light: Medium light
Water: Every 1 to 3 days
Mature size: 2 to 5 feet
Growth rate: Fast

Care

Keep the soil consistently moist because this plant wilts quickly if it dries out. It thrives in dappled shade and prefers high humidity. Watch for drooping leaves as a sign that it needs a drink immediately.

Watering: Keep the soil damp at all times to prevent wilting.
Feeding: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Pruning: Pinch back the tips to encourage a bushier shape.
Repotting: Since it is an annual, you typically do not need to repot it.
Soil: Rich, moist, organic soil
Soil pH: 6.0 to 7.5

Safety

Pets: This plant is generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.

How to identify it

Orange trumpet shaped flowers
Spotted throat on petals
Succulent, translucent stems
Oval shaped serrated leaves
Seed pods explode when touched

Science

Family: Balsaminaceae
Genus: Impatiens
Order: Ericales
Class: Magnoliopsida

Taxonomy resolved against GBIF.

Also in

Plants for shade

Is your orange jewelweed looking unwell?

This page is a general guide. Pocket Botanist diagnoses problems from a photo of your actual plant, works out watering for your light and conditions, and reminds you when care is due.

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This guide was generated with AI and checked against GBIF taxonomy. It is general information, not horticultural or veterinary advice. Read about how we build these guides.