Balsam
Impatiens balsamina
Garden balsam is a charming annual with cup-shaped flowers nestled along upright stems. Known for its explosive seed pods and delicate beauty, it symbolizes impatience, maternal love, and quick action.
Balsaminaceae (Balsam family)
Mid-summer to frost (July-October), continuous blooming
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Cultural Significance
The name "touch-me-not" and "impatiens" both refer to the plant's explosive seed pods that burst when touched, symbolizing impatience and quick reactions. In Victorian flower language, balsam meant "impatience" and was sometimes given as a gentle reproach to someone who was being too hasty. In Asian cultures, it's associated with maternal protection.Botanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Partial shade preferred; can tolerate morning sun with afternoon shade
Water
Consistent moisture; avoid both drought stress and waterlogged conditions
Soil
Moist, Well-drained, Fertile, Organic-rich, Slightly acidic to neutral
Expert Growing Tips
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost
Prefers partial shade, especially in hot climates
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
Pinch growing tips when young for bushier plants
Seeds explode when ripe - collect before fully mature for saving
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Shade gardens and borders
- Container gardens
- Cottage garden plantings
- Cut flowers (short vase life)
- Children's gardens (exploding seed pods)
Traditional Uses
- Traditional use in Asian medicine for skin conditions
- Historically used for burns, cuts, and wounds
- Traditional remedy for nail fungus and warts
- Contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Balsam
why is balsam called touch-me-not?
Balsam is called 'touch-me-not' because its ripe seed pods explode when touched, shooting seeds several feet away - a dramatic mechanism for seed dispersal.
is garden balsam the same as impatiens?
Garden balsam (Impatiens balsamina) is a specific species of impatiens, but it's different from the common bedding impatiens (Impatiens walleriana) most gardeners know.
does balsam need shade?
Yes, garden balsam prefers partial shade, especially afternoon shade in hot climates, though it can tolerate morning sun with adequate moisture.
what does balsam flower symbolize?
Balsam symbolizes impatience, maternal love, and quick action, largely due to its explosive seed pods and the meaning of its botanical name 'impatiens.'
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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