'A Parrot plant will be the most fascinating display in your greenhouse or conservatory.' Bob Flowerdew
This is what Bob Flowerdew said on Radio 4 GQT a while ago. He's a real fan of the Parrot Plant (Impatiens niamniamensis). These plants are indeed incredible, but let's not forget their amazing relatives which bring their own unique spectacle! From the stunningly variegated Parrot Plant to the exquisite rare Impatiens tuberosa (see below).
These plants, from the family Balsaminaceae, are from Tropical Africa and Madagasgar. They are all easy to grow, upright in habit and very free flowering. Ideal for vibrant bedding plants or kept as houseplants.
🦜 Our grower Ian, was just recommending the Parrot Plant to me as a cheerful antidote to miserable weather! It's great for bright tropical colour at this time of year. It's also a fantastic bright plant for kids to learn how to take stem cuttings from. 🦜