Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis)

Family: Balsaminaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Impatiens capensis is a ANNUAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2. It is in flower from July to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Shoots

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The succulent stems, whilst still young and tender, can be cut up and cooked like green beans. Young leaves and shoots - cooked. They contain calcium oxalate crystals. Calcium oxalate is usually destroyed by thorough cooking. — The succulent stems, whilst still young and tender, can be cut up and cooked like green beans.; Young leaves and shoots - cooked.; They contain calcium oxalate crystals.; Calcium oxalate is usually destroyed by thorough cooking.

Habitat & North American Range

Along the banks of rivers and canals, also in low-lying moist woodlands, avoiding acid soils. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)