Species
2 other cultivars
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:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Annual
Height
60"
Width
48"
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
10
Water
Consistently moist
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial in warm climates
Native To
Eastern Africa
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Bloom period
Spring to Fall – Early summer
In flower about 4 months of the year
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
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'
Dyemaker's Balsam
Impatiens tinctoria
Blue Diamond Impatiens
Impatiens arguta
Impatiens Blue Dream
Impatiens arguta 'Blue Dream'
Poor Man's Orchid
Impatiens balfourii 'Poor Man's Orchid'
Rockapulco Purple Impatiens
Impatiens walleriana 'Rockapulco Purple'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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.