17 Impatiens That Smell Better Than You’d Expect

Plant Care
By John Miller

Impatiens, often admired for their vibrant colors and shade-loving nature, are not commonly recognized for their fragrance. However, some varieties of these delightful plants emit pleasant and unexpected scents. This blog post explores 17 impatiens varieties that not only brighten your garden or home but also surprise you with their aromatic charm.

1. Impatiens Balsamina

© MyGardenLife

Impatiens Balsamina greets you with a scent reminiscent of a morning garden after gentle rain. This delightful plant adorns itself with lush, pink flowers that captivate the senses. Known to grace many gardens, Balsamina thrives in shaded areas, providing a touch of elegance and a hint of fragrance.

Unlike other impatiens, its aroma is subtle yet enchanting, making it a favorite among garden enthusiasts seeking both color and scent. Historically, this impatiens was treasured in Victorian gardens for its beauty and unanticipated fragrance.

Its presence brings not just visual delight but an aromatic surprise that lingers softly in the air.

2. Impatiens Namchabarwensis

© Annie’s Annuals and Perennials

Imagine stumbling upon the rare blue blossoms of Impatiens Namchabarwensis in a hidden corner of a forest. This elusive plant surprises many with its aromatic allure. Its fragrance, subtle yet distinctive, complements the striking blue hue of its flowers.

Often found in remote areas, it offers a unique addition to any plant collection. The scent it imparts is as mysterious as its appearance, hinting at its exotic origins.

Gardeners delight in cultivating this impatiens for both its visual uniqueness and the unexpected fragrance that accompanies its bloom.

3. Impatiens Capensis

© Adirondack Nature

Known commonly as the Orange Jewelweed, Impatiens Capensis is more than just a pretty face. Its vibrant orange flowers are accompanied by a gentle, sweet fragrance that invites butterflies and hummingbirds alike.

Growing predominantly in wetland areas, its presence is a testament to nature’s resilience and beauty. The plant’s ability to thrive in moist environments adds to its charm.

For those who appreciate both color and scent, Impatiens Capensis offers an engaging garden experience, its fragrance a delightful bonus for any nature lover.

4. Impatiens Walleriana

© Moon Valley Nurseries

Impatiens Walleriana, commonly known as Busy Lizzie, is a staple in many gardens. Its multi-colored blooms present a visual feast, while a soft and sweet fragrance surprises the senses.

These flowers are a testament to versatility, thriving in pots or garden beds. Their scent is a gentle whisper amidst a garden’s vibrant chatter.

Originating from East Africa, these impatiens have come a long way, bringing not just their vivid colors but a subtle aromatic charm that enhances any garden space.

5. Impatiens Glandulifera

© itoldya test1 – GetArchive

Impatiens Glandulifera, or Himalayan Balsam, is often found lining riverbanks with its towering presence. Its orchid-like flowers emit a surprisingly sweet aroma that carries across the water.

This impatiens is a sight to behold, drawing in pollinators with both its looks and scent. Its tall, elegant stems add height and interest to any landscape.

Though considered invasive in some areas, its contribution to biodiversity and the sensory experience it offers cannot be overlooked. A true testament to nature’s aromatic artistry.

6. Impatiens Parviflora

© Wikimedia Commons – Wikimedia.org

The understated Impatiens Parviflora might often be overlooked, but its subtle charm and fragrance are not to be dismissed. Its small, yellow flowers may seem humble, yet they offer a gentle scent that intrigues the curious gardener.

Thriving in shaded woodlands, this plant brings a touch of the wild into cultivated spaces. Its fragrance, though light, is a pleasant surprise for those who take the time to notice.

A perfect reminder that beauty and aroma can be found in the most unexpected places.

7. Impatiens Sodenii

© SFGATE

Impatiens Sodenii captivates with its large, pristine white flowers and a fragrance that is as soothing as a gentle breeze. This tropical beauty, often found in lush environments, offers a floral scent that enchants those who encounter it.

The plant’s robust growth adds a tropical flair to gardens, making it a popular choice for those seeking both grandeur and fragrance.

Its presence in the garden is like a breath of fresh air, inviting moments of relaxation and enjoyment amidst its scented blossoms.

8. Impatiens Arguta

© Keeping It Green Nursery

In the high altitudes, Impatiens Arguta stands out with its vibrant purple flowers and a fragrance that defies its rugged surroundings. Known for its resilience, this plant offers a sweet aroma amidst challenging conditions.

The juxtaposition of its delicate scent against the harsh mountain terrain is nothing short of inspiring. Its blooms add color and scent to rocky landscapes, making it a favorite among mountain gardeners.

A true example of beauty thriving in adversity, Impatiens Arguta is a fragrant jewel of the highlands.

9. Impatiens Bicordata

© Prairiebreak

Impatiens Bicordata, with its heart-shaped leaves, is a sweet reminder of nature’s delicate artistry. Its small, pink flowers release a light, floral fragrance that enchants the senses.

Found on the forest floor, this plant adds a touch of romance to shaded areas. Its leaves, shaped like hearts, complement the tender aroma it emits.

Perfect for those who appreciate subtlety, Impatiens Bicordata offers a gentle surprise for both the eyes and the nose, reminding us that love is in the details.

10. Impatiens Oblongata

© Species New to Science

The graceful Impatiens Oblongata is known for its oblong leaves and the understated beauty of its white flowers. These blooms emit a soft fragrance that soothes and refreshes.

Set against the backdrop of a lush garden, this plant adds elegance and aromatic delight. Its gentle scent is a quiet companion to its visual appeal.

Gardeners who seek tranquility and subtle aromatic experiences often choose Impatiens Oblongata for its calming influence and delicate presence.

11. Impatiens Flaccida

© iNaturalist

Impatiens Flaccida, with its drooping yellow flowers, seems to bow in quiet reverence to nature. This delicate plant exudes a gentle fragrance that lingers softly.

Found in moist, forested areas, it thrives under filtered light, bringing a touch of serenity to its surroundings. The scent it offers is subtle yet memorable, enhancing its quaint charm.

For those who appreciate the softer side of nature, Impatiens Flaccida is a delightful addition, pairing visual grace with a whisper of fragrance.

12. Impatiens Mirabilis

© Strange Wonderful Things

The striking Impatiens Mirabilis dazzles with its vibrant pink flowers and a fragrance that entices the senses. Native to tropical regions, it offers a lush addition to gardens.

Its scent is as captivating as its appearance, providing an aromatic delight in warm environments. The plant’s beauty and fragrance create a tropical paradise for garden enthusiasts.

With each bloom, Impatiens Mirabilis promises a sensory experience that is both visually and aromatically rewarding.

13. Impatiens Noli-tangere

© Adobe Stock

Impatiens Noli-tangere, also known as Touch-me-not Balsam, offers bright yellow blooms that stand out in shaded woodland areas. Its fragrance is a gentle reminder of nature’s subtle wonders.

The plant thrives near streams, adding life and color to its natural habitat. Its flowers, though delicate, hold a scent that invites closer inspection.

For those who wander through the woods, Impatiens Noli-tangere provides an unexpected aromatic encounter that enriches the journey.

14. Impatiens Textori

© wildplantsshimane.jp

Impatiens Textori, with its pinkish-purple blooms, graces mountainous regions with both beauty and fragrance. Its scent is a soft whisper amidst the rugged landscape.

This plant’s ability to thrive in challenging environments is a testament to its resilience. The fragrance it imparts is both calming and refreshing, a perfect complement to its surroundings.

For nature lovers, Impatiens Textori offers a fragrant journey into the wild, blending visual charm with aromatic allure.

15. Impatiens Glandulosa

© White Flower Farm

Impatiens Glandulosa, known for its bright pink flowers, adds a vibrant touch to gardens. Its fragrance, while delicate, offers a refreshing aroma that enhances its visual appeal.

This plant thrives in well-maintained garden settings, bringing both color and scent to outdoor spaces. Its blooms are a delightful surprise for those who cherish aromatic experiences.

Gardeners who appreciate vibrant colors and subtle fragrances often choose Impatiens Glandulosa to enrich their gardens with both beauty and scent.

16. Impatiens Grandis

© Wikimedia Commons – Wikimedia.org

Impatiens Grandis lives up to its name, with large white flowers that command attention. Its fragrance is as grand as its appearance, offering a rich, floral aroma.

Found in tropical environments, it brings an air of sophistication to any garden. The plant’s lush growth and scent create an inviting atmosphere for both humans and pollinators.

Impatiens Grandis is a testament to the beauty and aroma that tropical plants can bring to cultivated spaces.

17. Impatiens Psittachina

© Amazon.com

With flowers that mimic the shape of a parrot, Impatiens Psittachina is a botanical curiosity. Its unique blooms are not only a visual spectacle but also emit a fragrance that intrigues the senses.

Often found on forest floors, this plant surprises with its combination of visual oddity and aromatic charm. Its presence is a reminder of nature’s endless creativity.

For those who seek the extraordinary in their gardens, Impatiens Psittachina offers both a visual and fragrant adventure.