I found these and had to have them. Anyone growing them and have some advice on how to overwinter? I also got Impatients omeiana, anyone growing those? I was happy to see the latest issue of Horticulture had both of these in there.
Congo Cockatoo
I've overwintered the congo cockatoo indoors (bright window), outdoors, and in my greenhouse. Indoors seemed to work the best, but I think that's mainly because my greenhouse was a bit overly sunny for them and also gets a bit too warm on sunny winter days. Outdoors it lost all its leaves but it did come back for me (it was in a pretty sheltered location though, so while it would have seen some chilly temperatures it never actually got any frost). I've never grown omeiana. I was just reading that article yesterday too...I personally love some of the more unusual Impatiens species and it's nice to see them raising awareness of them. One of my favorites is I. balfourii, it's an annual but reseeds prolifically (perhaps a little too prolifically...but the seedlings are easy to pull!). And I also love I. arguta, it's absolutely beautiful. And my newest favorite is I. namchabarwensis, I got one last year and planted it in the garden and it made it through the winter with no problem at all (it was in a pretty sheltered spot that doesn't get frost)
Thanks for the reply, I will have to look for the others now. Why is it that we have to have them all?? I have always loved all impatiens, but that omeiana I think is really special. I loved the article. I will bring my cockatoo in for winter.
What is the botanical name for your plant?
Hi,
I have Impatiens niamniamensis I got from http://www.anniesannuals.com/ and its one of my favs.
I've had it a couple of years now. Its in a 10 inch pot and its about 3-4 feet tall. It blooms all the time. I also over winter it in the greenhouse. Its also easy to start from cuttings.
I've never tried omeiana, but would like to. I'll have to look for it.
Liz is right about balfourii it reseeds everywhere.
I love all the unusual impatiens
Linda