Summary
Impatiens capensis, also known as jewelweed or spotted touch-me-not, is a flowering plant that is native to North America. It is a common plant in moist, shaded areas such as ravines, wooded areas, and along streams and rivers. Impatiens capensis is an annual plant that grows up to 2 meters (6 feet) tall. It has thin, hairy stems and large, showy flowers that are typically orange or yellow in color with red or brown spots. The flowers are shaped like a slender, downward-pointing trumpet and are attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators. The plant gets its common name, jewelweed, from the shiny, jewel-like appearance of its leaves and stems. Impatiens capensis is known for its medicinal properties and has been traditionally used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including poison ivy rash.
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Orange Balsam, also known as Spotted Touch-me-not or Jewelweed, is a wildflower native to North America. The scientific name for this plant is Impatiens capensis.
One of the most striking features of Orange Balsam is its vibrant orange color, which makes it a popular choice for wildflower gardens and naturalized areas. The plant typically grows to be about 2-3 feet tall and has delicate, pointed leaves and a dainty appearance.
One of the most interesting things about Orange Balsam is its ability to alleviate the itching and pain associated with poison ivy and other skin irritations. The juice from the stem of the plant can be applied topically to soothe irritated skin, making it a popular natural remedy for outdoor enthusiasts.
Another unique characteristic of Orange Balsam is its seed dispersal method. The seed pods of the plant are incredibly sensitive to touch, and when they are brushed against, they will burst open and launch their seeds several feet away. This is why the plant is commonly referred to as the "touch-me-not."
Orange Balsam is also known for its ability to attract hummingbirds and butterflies, making it a great addition to any pollinator garden. It is easy to grow and can be found in moist, shady areas, such as along streams, in woodlands, and in wet meadows.
In summary, Orange Balsam is a beautiful and unique wildflower that offers both aesthetic appeal and natural remedies. Its orange color, delicate appearance, and ability to attract pollinators make it a great addition to any garden, while its medicinal properties make it a valuable natural remedy for outdoor enthusiasts.
In addition to its medicinal and aesthetic properties, Orange Balsam is also known for its easy-to-grow nature. It prefers moist, shady areas, such as along streams, in woodlands, and in wet meadows. The plant can also tolerate some sun, making it a versatile option for gardeners. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
When planting Orange Balsam, it is important to keep in mind that it prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, but it will perform best in soil that is consistently moist.
One of the best ways to propagate Orange Balsam is through seed. The seeds can be collected in the late summer and fall, and then sown in the spring. They can also be sown directly in the ground in the fall. Germination usually takes place within 2-3 weeks, but can take up to a month.
Orange Balsam is also a great option for container gardening. It can be grown in a variety of container sizes, as long as they have good drainage and are at least 12 inches deep. The plant should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
Orange Balsam is not known to have any serious pest or disease issues. However, it is important to keep an eye out for slugs and snails, which may damage the leaves. These pests can be controlled with slug bait or beer traps.
Another interesting aspect of Orange Balsam is its historical and cultural significance. For centuries, Orange Balsam has been used by Native American tribes for its medicinal properties. They used the plant to treat a wide range of ailments, including skin irritations, wounds, and respiratory issues. The juice from the stem of the plant was also used to soothe sore eyes and reduce inflammation.
In addition, Orange Balsam has been used by traditional healers in Africa and Asia to treat various skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and poison ivy. It is also used to reduce pain and inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Orange Balsam is also known for its medicinal properties in treating a wide range of skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and poison ivy. The plant contains compounds that act as an anti-inflammatory and antihistamine, which helps to reduce itching and redness.
The plant has also been used in traditional medicine as a diuretic and laxative. The leaves and stem of the plant are rich in potassium and other minerals, which help to regulate fluid balance in the body and improve digestion.
Aside from its medicinal properties, Orange Balsam is also an important food source for many species of wildlife. The leaves, seeds, and flowers of the plant are eaten by a wide variety of birds, deer, and other animals. The seeds are also an important food source for many small mammals and insects.
In conclusion, Orange Balsam is not only a beautiful and easy-to-grow wildflower, but also a plant with a rich history and cultural significance. Its vibrant orange color, delicate appearance, and ability to attract pollinators make it a great addition to any garden, while its medicinal properties make it a valuable natural remedy for outdoor enthusiasts. Its historical and cultural significance, easy-to-grow nature, and ability to act as a food source for wildlife make it a unique and important plant to consider for any garden.
Video
Orange Balsam filmed on the banks of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal on the 7th August 2022.
Music credits
Comfortable Mystery 4 - Film Noire by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100535
Artist: http://incompetech.com/
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