Impatiens sulcata

Physical Characteristics

Impatiens sulcata is a ANNUAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft). It is in leaf from April to October, in flower from August to September, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Himalayas - Kashmir to Bhutan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Oil Seed Edible Uses: Oil Leaves[177]. No more details are given, but some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. Seed - raw[105]. Pickled[272]. No more details are given, but the seeds are difficult to harvest in quantity. This is mainly because of their exploding seed capsules which scatter the ripe seed at the slightest touch[K]. An edible oil is obtained from the seed[105]. Ripe fruits - raw[272]. A confusing report, the plant produces a capsule surrounding the seeds[K].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

Regular ingestion of large quantities of these plants can be dangerous due to their high mineral content[172]. This report, which seems nonsensical, might refer to calcium oxalate. This mineral is found in I. capensis and so is probably also in other members of the genus. It can be harmful raw but is destroyed by thoroughly cooking or drying the plant[K]. People with a tendency to rheumatism, arthritis, gout, kidney stones and hyperacidity should take especial caution if including this plant in their diet[238].