Spotted Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis): Touch-Me-Not for Poison Ivy Relief

Spotted Jewelweed: The Wild Remedy for Poison Ivy

Spotted jewelweed (Impatiens capensis), also called touch-me-not, is a succulent annual native to moist, shady areas of North America. Its orange, spotted, trumpet-shaped flowers have a distinctive nectar spur. The seed pods explode when touched, dispersing seeds. The stem juice is a famous folk remedy for poison ivy rash.

Botanical Profile

Grows 2–5 feet tall with translucent, watery stems and oval, toothed leaves that appear silvered when held underwater (due to air bubbles). Flowers bloom mid-summer to frost. The name "touch-me-not" refers to the explosive seed dispersal.

Uses and Ecology

• Poison ivy remedy: Crush fresh stems and apply juice to exposed skin; may prevent rash.
• Wildlife: Hummingbirds, bees, butterflies love the nectar.
• Natural dye: Flowers yield orange-yellow.
• Rain garden plant: Thrives in wet, shady sites.

Direct sow in fall or early spring in moist, shady areas. Self-seeds vigorously. Not typically cultivated; encourage in wild areas. Annual in all zones.