Spotted Touch-Me-Not (Impatiens capensis)

Spotted Touch-Me-Not

Impatiens capensis

Vibrant orange blooms glow like tiny lanterns in wet woodlands. Herbaceous annual wildflower; common names: spotted touch-me-not, jewelweed.

Partial sun
2–3/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Partial shade to full shade; tolerates dappled sunlight in woodland or rain garden settings
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist; prefers wet, boggy or damp soil conditions to mimic native wetland habitats
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Temperature Thrives in cool to temperate temperatures; avoid extreme heat above 30°C which can cause wilting
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Simple, ovate to lanceolate leaves with serrated margins; pale green to medium green, often with faint purple spots
  • Flower: Orange, trumpet-shaped blooms with spotted throats; hang downward from leaf axils
  • Stem: Succulent, translucent green stems that exude watery sap when broken
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil continuously moist; water when top 1 cm of soil feels slightly dry

Fertilization

Light, diluted feed once monthly. Use balanced, low-strength fertilizer to support flowering without overfeeding

Composted banana peel tea:Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid uncomposted peels to prevent mold growth
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage extended flowering through early autumn
  • Thin overcrowded stems to improve airflow and reduce risk of fungal growth
  • Remove yellowing or damaged foliage to maintain plant appearance and health
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no harmful effects for cats

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no documented adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Used in traditional herbalism to soothe skin irritations; ornamental rain garden plant