Leaf type: Oval, egg-shaped with a pointed tip, broadly lanceolate
Leaf margin: Serrated
Phyllotaxis: Alternate
Colour: Light green, dark green
Life cycle: Annual
Leaf (upper side)
Leaf (under side)
Growth habit & biology
Impatiens parviflora is an annual plant that can grow up to 60 centimeters tall.
The oval to broadly lanceolate leaves taper to a point. The leaf margin is serrated. The color varies from light green to dark green.
It spreads by seed, which are ejected from the fruits. This allows Impatiens parviflora to quickly colonize large areas.
The leaves and seeds are said to be edible.
Distribution & habitates
Its native range is in temperate Asia (source). As an ornamental plant, Impatiens parviflora was introduced to Europe, North America, and other regions, where it has been able to spread.
Impatiens parviflora inhabits semi-shaded to shaded locations and can be found in and around forests, along the edges of thickets, in hedgerows, parks, gardens, ditches, on embankments and slopes, and along the edges of paths.
Botany
Small balsam or small-flowered touch-me-not is a member of the balsam family (Balsaminaceae).
