Impatiens ecalcarata
Impatiens ecalcaratafam. Balsaminaceae
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Pl. EA3D — Impatiens ecalcarata
Impatiens ecalcarataImpatiens ecalcarataImpatiens ecalcarataImpatiens ecalcarataImpatiens ecalcarataImpatiens ecalcarataImpatiens ecalcarataImpatiens ecalcarataImpatiens ecalcarataImpatiens ecalcarataImpatiens ecalcarataImpatiens ecalcarataImpatiens ecalcarataImpatiens ecalcarata
IOverview
Overview
Impatiens ecalcarata, commonly known as the spotted touch-me-not, is a native annual plant found in British Columbia, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and parts of Laos and Myanmar. This light-loving species thrives in moist environments with soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It prefers full sun to partial shade and is known for its edible leaves, shoots, and seeds, making it a valuable addition to gardens and landscapes where it can also serve as an ornamental plant. Its distinctive feature lies in the way it disperses its seeds explosively when touched, earning its name.
Quick answers
What is Impatiens ecalcarata?
Impatiens ecalcarata, commonly known as the spotted touch-me-not, is a native annual plant found in British Columbia, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and parts of Laos and Myanmar. This light-loving species thrives in moist environments with soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Impatiens ecalcarata thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This annual plant is native to British Columbia, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, Laos, and Myanmar, making it adaptable to temperate regions. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently damp while providing ample sunlight. Propagate through seeds for best results. The edible parts include leaves, shoots, and seeds, making this a versatile addition to both culinary and garden settings.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
For first-time growers
How to grow Impatiens ecalcarata for the first time
8steps
Start with easy care and light requirements for Impatiens ecalcarata.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a small pot or garden bed, good quality soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with some sand for better drainage. Ensure containers have holes for water to escape.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before planting outside, or buy young plants from a nursery.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist and place in partial shade. Water regularly but avoid overwatering.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light to full sun exposure, water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and keep the area weed-free.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Harvest leaves for culinary use if needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough light, neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeedShoots
Edible uses: The leaves, seeds, and shoots of Impatiens ecalcarata are edible. Typically, these parts can be prepared raw or cooked. SKIP
Other uses:DyeantifungalHairPest control
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
7 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
7 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 7 native
Asia2 regions
native (2)LaosMyanmar
Broader regions
native:British Columbia, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
6 related
See also
6 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Balsaminaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Balsaminaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
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