Identifying Balsam (Impatiens balsamina) from a Seed Packet

A single plant grew from a mixed seed packet; the gardener didn't recognize it.

ID: Balsam (Impatiens balsamina)

• Old-fashioned Victorian annual.
• Related to jewelweed, New Guinea impatiens, garden impatiens.
• Seed pods **explode** when ripe ("touch-me-not").
• Used in folk medicine; some modern research supports properties.

A charming, self-sowing heirloom for shade gardens.