Family Balsaminaceae (Balsam family)

Plant Identification

Impatiens are annual or perennial plants.  Perennial species are often grown as annuals.  Flowers bloom throughout the summer and vary in color, which includes pink, white, red, purple, and orange.  Impatiens are usually planted in containers or borders and attract hummingbirds.

Optimum conditions for growth

Impatiens require regular water and, depending on species, do best in partial or full shade and prefer moist well-drained soils.

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Family Violaceae (Violet family)

Plant Identification

Pansies and most violets are perennial plants, although they are often grown as winter annuals in mild winter areas. They are grown mostly in borders, edges, or containers and sometimes used in rock gardens. Flowers may bloom in spring through summer and even during the winter in mild climates. They are brightly colored including blue, red, purple, yellow, and other colors. Many flowers have dark blotches on the lower three petals.

Optimum conditions for growth

Pansies do well in full sun or partial shade while violets do better in some or complete shade. They require regular water. Some species can tolerate some drought. Removing old flowers can extend the blooming period. Plants often need to be removed during the summer in very hot areas as they get ragged.

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Family Begoniaceae (Begonia family)

Plant Identification

Begonias are perennial plants, but many are grown as annuals.  They are often grown in potted plants or in beds.  Begonia flowers bloom in early summer through fall and are clustered and come in various colors such as white, yellow, orange, red, or pink.  Leaves are sometimes multicolored.

Optimum conditions for growth

Begonias do best in filtered shade or bright indirect light.  They require regular water, rich, well-drained soil and prefer some humidity.

Family Solanaceae (Nightshade family)

Plant Identification

Petunias are low-growing perennial plants generally treated as annuals. Leaves are thick and somewhat sticky. Flowers may be ruffled or funnel-shaped and are of various colors including white, yellow, red, blue, and purple. They bloom from spring into winter. Petunias are often grown in beds, containers, window boxes, or as ground covers.

Optimum conditions for growth

Petunias require regular water and fertilizer, and they must be planted in soil that drains well. Plants do well in areas with full sun. After the bloom period, remove old flowers to promote new plant growth.