Sulcata Impatiens (Impatiens sulcata)

Family: Balsaminaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Impatiens sulcata is a ANNUAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft). It is in leaf from April to October, in flower from August to September, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Leaves. No more details are given, but some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. Seed - raw. Pickled. No more details are given, but the seeds are difficult to harvest in quantity. — No more details are given, but some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.; No more details are given, but the seeds are difficult to harvest in quantity.; This is mainly because of their exploding seed capsules which scatter the ripe seed at the slightest touch.; An edible oil is obtained from the seed.

Habitat & North American Range

Humus-rich soils in forests, shrubberies and cultivated areas, 1800 - 4000 metres. Understories of Picea forests, along canals, shaded moist places; 3000 - 4000 metres in Tibet. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)