Delaware Wildflowers • Guides

Impatiens — the Jewel-Weeds
Two species in Delaware, both native.

Impatiens capensis, Spotted Jewel-weed
Orange flowers; found throughout the state.

Impatiens pallida, Pale Jewel-weed
Yellow flowers; found only in the Piedmont.

When they are not in bloom, they can be distinguished by the leaves; the teeth on the leaves of pale jewel-weed are much closer together.  Also, where the plants are growing side by side you may notice that the leaves of pale jewel-weed tend to be a darker, more bluish green. Pale jewel-weed is shown in the top half of the third photo below (photo by John Harrod.)



Sources: The Flora of Delaware, John Harrod.


Copyright David G. Smith

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