New Guinea Impatiens: Sun-Tolerant Color for Beds and Containers

Familiar shade-loving impatiens (I. walleriana) have a showier, tougher cousin: New Guinea impatiens (Impatiens × hawkeri). Native to New Guinea, they form compact, succulent-stemmed plants 1–2 ft tall with long, pointed, serrated leaves in green, bronze, purple, or stunning variegation. Flowers reach 2 inches across in white, pink, lavender, purple, orange, and red. Some variegated cultivars (e.g., 'Painted Paradise Red') rival the blooms in drama.

Key Differences from Elfin Impatiens

• Propagation: New Guinea impatiens are vegetatively propagated from cuttings (seed is extremely difficult; only 'Tango' F1 hybrid is widely available). Thus they're sold as single plants at higher prices.
• Sun tolerance: They thrive with up to half a day of sun—preferably morning sun with afternoon shade—and bloom more prolifically with some direct light.
• Water needs: They require consistent moisture; wilt dramatically if dried out but recover fast when watered. Self-watering pots help. Avoid standing water.
• Overwintering: Bring pots indoors before frost. Pinch back to prevent legginess; expect fewer flowers in low light.

SunPatiens: The Next Generation

Bred from New Guinea × wild impatiens, SunPatiens combine large flowers with heat and sun tolerance. Tested in Texas by Dallas Arboretum director Jimmy Turner, they thrived in intense southern sun—proving impatiens can now handle the heat.

Photo credits: I. walleriana by linsuehoo (Flickr CC); all others by author.