Robert the Red Impatiens
Impatiens sodenii 'Robert the Red'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Annual
Height
60 inches
Width
48 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Water
Consistently moist
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial in warm climates
Native To
Eastern Africa
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Large, shrubby, evergreen perennial with succulent stems and whorls of dark green leaves. Often called Poor Man's Rhododendron. Distinguished by its robust, shrub-like habit and large, 2-inch wide, cerise-red flowers that bloom nearly year-round in frost-free climates.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select a shaded location with moist, well-draining soil.
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into the soil, keeping moist for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote root growth.
- Transplant seedlings when they are strong enough, typically after 4-6 weeks.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Pro Tip
Keep soil consistently moist and provide partial shade for vibrant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Prune lightly to encourage bushier growth
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly
Don't
- Avoid direct, harsh sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
- Don’t overwater to prevent root rot
- Refrain from fertilizing during dormancy
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Robert the Red Impatiens questions
What zones can Robert the Red Impatiens grow in?
Robert the Red Impatiens is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Robert the Red Impatiens deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Robert the Red Impatiens, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Robert the Red Impatiens bloom?
Robert the Red Impatiens typically blooms in spring to fall through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Robert the Red Impatiens need full sun?
Robert the Red Impatiens does best in part shade.
More Impatiens to compare
Rockapulco Wisteria Impatiens
Impatiens walleriana 'Rockapulco Wisteria'
Blue Diamond Impatiens
Impatiens arguta
Rockapulco Purple Impatiens
Impatiens walleriana 'Rockapulco Purple'
New Guinea Impatiens 'Compact Tropical Rose'
Impatiens x hybrida 'Compact Tropical Rose'
Dyemaker's Balsam
Impatiens tinctoria
Poor Man's Orchid, Balfour's Touch-me-not
Impatiens balfourii 'Poor Man's Orchid'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Robert the Red Impatiens with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
