I have found a new plant that I absolutely love! Sunpatiens are actually impatiens that can handle the Texas sun! I know what you are thinking, this must be a garden myth. Well, it’s not! If you love the brilliant color of impatiens but don’t have the perfect shady spot in your yard this plant is for you! The growers have come up with a hardy plant that still has that delicate look of impatiens. They are easy to care for and make a great addition to your landscape.
Sunpatiens – History
“SUNPATIENS SERIES are the first impatiens to thrive in full sun. They also thrive in climates with high heat and high humidity. Plants are generally larger, bushier and more floriferous with longer spring to frost bloom periods than the traditional New Guinea impatiens. These plants were developed by Sakata Seed of Japan, and are the result of hybrid crosses between traditional New Guinea impatiens and wild impatiens. Plants come in three habits: Compact Series (compact habit to 18-24″ tall), Spreading Series (mounding habit to 24-30″ tall) and Vigorous Series (vase shape habit to 30-36″ tall). Large 5-petaled asymmetrical flowers (to 3″ across) typically cover the plants with bloom from spring to frost. Flower colors include shades of pink, coral, orange, salmon, red, lilac, lavender and white. Ovate to elliptic leaves (to 3” long) are light green to dark green. U.S. Plant Patents have been obtained or in some cases patent applications remain pending for all plants in this series.” This information comes from the Missouri botanical garden website.
Sunpatiens – Care
You will want to plant sunpatiens in well drained soil in either containers or garden beds. Massing them together creates an impressive display. Make sure you are using a water soluble fertilizer 2 or 3 times a month. There is no need to cut back it will hamper their natural growth patterns. Water evenly in the first 7 to 10 days to get them established. Maintain even watering but they can handle drying out between waterings. They will want full sun and can stand a little afternoon shade.
We hope you enjoy this new brand of impatiens as much as we do! See you in the garden.