Dyemaker's Balsam
Impatiens tinctoria
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Annual
Height
84 inches
Width
42 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
9
Water
Consistently moist soil
Humidity
Prefers high humidity
Lifespan
Tender Perennial
Native To
Africa
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
A large, tuberous-rooted, tender perennial with lush foliage and large, fragrant, orchid-like white flowers marked with red in the throat. The fragrance is most pronounced at night. Often used for natural dyeing due to the dye extracted from its leaves.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
- Plant in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter.
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during growing season.
- Prune lightly to encourage bushier growth and remove dead flowers.
Pro Tip
Provide partial shade to prevent leaf scorch and ensure vibrant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly, keeping soil evenly moist 🌱
- Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during active growth
- Prune to shape and remove spent flowers
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not expose to direct, harsh sunlight
- Refrain from using heavy, compacted soil
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Lift Store | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Stake |
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
Dyemaker's Balsam questions
What zones can Dyemaker's Balsam grow in?
Dyemaker's Balsam is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Dyemaker's Balsam deer resistant?
Yes — Dyemaker's Balsam is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Dyemaker's Balsam bloom?
Dyemaker's Balsam typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Dyemaker's Balsam need full sun?
Dyemaker's Balsam does best in part shade.
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Poor Man's Orchid, Balfour's Touch-me-not
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Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Dyemaker's Balsam 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.
