Impatiens balsamina, commonly known as garden balsam, is an annual herb native to subtropical and tropical regions of South and Southeast Asia, including India and Myanmar. It typically grows to a height of 8-30 inches and has spirally arranged leaves with toothed margins. The plant features solitary, showy flowers that can be pink, red, or white, and bloom from summer to early fall. The flowers are pollinated by insects and birds, and the plant is known for its camellia-like blooms.

Garden balsam is valued for its ease of cultivation and vibrant flowers, making it a popular choice for ornamental garden beds and containers. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and prefers full sun to part shade. While it requires regular watering, it is relatively low-maintenance once established. In traditional medicine, various parts of the plant are used to treat conditions such as warts and snakebites. However, gardeners should be cautious as Impatiens balsamina can become invasive outside its native range, and it is important to check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0