Impatiens niamniamensis – ‘Parrot Beak Plant’
With the common name of ‘Parrot Beak Plant’, Impatiens niamniamensis is an Impatiens with a difference. A small perennial shrub with nothing really outstanding about it, until it flowers.
It is in late summer that the small red and yellow flowers appear, and they are fascinating. They appear in clusters and do look like ‘Parrot beaks’.
The flowers do tend to be hidden away in the foliage, however they are bright enough to attract attention from most passersby. Usually with the question, What is that plant?
Tell them that it an Impatiens and they will look a little surprised, however it is from central Africa and from this it gets its name Impatiens niamniamensis ‘Congo Cockatoo’ and ‘African Queen’
Pruning
Regular pruning will help keep Impatiens niamniamensis as a bushy plant. Use the pruned sections for cuttings, they will strike in water and can then be transferred into a free draining potting soil.
Best grown on a warm patio or in a sheltered position with strong filtered light. Hot direct sun will cause foliage to wilt quickly.
Impatiens niamniamensis Summary
- Height – To 1m
- Width – To .5m.
- Growth rate – Medium to Fast.
- Position- Filtered shade, however strong light. Flowering will be less in very deep shade.
- Warmth – This is a planet that requires warmth, outdoors is OK, especially from spring to autumn, however in cold climates it will need to be over wintered indoors.
- Soil – Well drained but moist is essential. Humus rich for best results and growth.
- Moisture – Will require some extra water during long dry summers.
- Foliage – Good deep green .
- Flowers – Yellow and red
- Frost tolerant- No
- Fertiliser – Use a liquid seaweed fertiliser every few weeks from spring to mid summer.
Not readily available for sale in Australia.