Jewelweed Plant Guide: How To Spot, Cultivate and Grow Jewelweed (Care)

Georgette Kilgore headshot, wearing 8 Billion Trees shirt with forest in the background.Written by Georgette Kilgore

Gardening | August 27, 2024

Man spotting Jewelweed flowers after looking up how to identify impatiens capensis and wondering how to cultivate and care for Jewelweed plants in the best growing zones.

A popular annual flower with a unique shape and bright colors, the Jewelweed plant makes for a beautiful addition to any backyard garden.

Jewelweed plants are members of the balsam family and are easily distinguished by their uniquely-shaped showy orange flowers with red spots,1 making them perfect for landscaping and gardening.

They go by the nickname “spotted touch me not” due to the fact that if you do happen to touch a pod, it will split open and expel seeds up to 5 feet away.1 This makes them a great pollinator.2

It’s also known to attract many types of bees and types of butterflies, and it’s one of the most popular garden plants that attract hummingbirds.

The plant does very well in semi-shady areas, and it’s native to northern North America.1 Seedlings usually sprout in early spring and reach full maturity by the end of August.2

Interested in more Jewelweed plant facts? We have you covered with plenty of information below.

Jewelweed

(Impatiens capensis)

Image of Jewelweed plant leaves with serrated edges and small orange flowers with red dots in an oval frame on green background.
  • Family: Balsam (Balsaminaceae)
  • Genus: Impatiens
  • Characteristics: A self-seeding annual with a unique shape, bright orange color, and decorative red spots
  • Leaf: Bluish-green, oval-shaped and about 2 ½” to 3” long
  • Seed: Small, green, oval-shaped
  • Blossoms: Unscented, inch-long bright orange to orange-yellow flowers with red specks
  • Native Habitat: Northern and Eastern North America
  • Height: 2’ to 5’ tall
  • Canopy: Large, pouch-like structure with a spur and artistic shape and bright orange blossoms
  • Type:: Annual
  • Native Growing Zone: USDA zones 2-11

How To Identify Jewelweed Plant (Impatiens capensis)

If you’re trying to determine how to identify Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis) out in the wild, keep an eye out for the bright orange, pouch-shaped flowers with red flecks. You’ll find the spotted touch me not spread across northern and eastern sections of North America.

It’s common to see it growing in shady, slightly damp areas. The plant is most easily distinguished by its bright, unique flowers which sit on top of a deep green stem and rigid leaves.

Graphic showing how to identify Jewelweed plant with images of Jewelweed plant leaf, Jewelweed plant flowers, full-grown Jewelweed plant, Jewelweed plant seed pods, and Jewelweed plant stem in circle frames.

Jewelweed typically grows between 2 and 3 feet tall, but in some cases, they can reach up to 5 feet.2

Jewelweed Flowers

Jewelweed’s flowers are its most remarkable feature. The plant has two flowers, neither of which has a scent.

One is a showy, unique cornucopia-shape and ranges from a bold orange to an orange-yellow, and it’s covered with red spots. This flower blooms in mid-summer and its blossoms are about 1 inch long.

The other is a small green blossom that does not open. You might see the Impatiens capensis (Orange Jewelweed) next to Impatiens pallida (Yellow Jewelweed).

These flowers are quite similar, but the yellow Jewelweed is less common.1

Jewelweed Leaves

Jewelweed leaves are a dark green color and consist of alternately arranged oval shapes and sharp teeth. They can appear to be somewhat scalloped.

They’re about 3’ to 5’ long, rough in texture, and the surfaces are covered with tiny hairs.3

The stems are upright, thin, weak, and hairless. Sometimes they are tinged red.4

Jewelweed Seeds

Jewelweed plants produce an abundance of small green seeds. Once the pods fully mature, these seeds will “explode” from the plant when touched.5

The seeds are actually edible, but they’re very tiny and it’s difficult to collect an abundance of them. They’re often consumed by mice and birds.

Growing a Jewelweed Plant From a Seed, Cutting, or Seedling

Growing Jewelweed from a seed, cutting, or seedling are all options; however, growing from seed is the easiest and most effective way to add this aesthetically pleasing plant to your garden.

Jewelweed will spread vigorously on its own. However, if it’s your first time planting, you might need some planting tips for Jewelweed.

One trick to improve germination is to store the seeds in the refrigerator for two months before you scatter them across the surface of your home garden.8 Make sure to wait until after the last frost.

It’s important to ensure the seeds have light exposure, so don’t bury them beneath the soil. If you’d prefer to start your seeds indoors and transplant them to a desired location, you can do it.

Wondering how long it takes to grow Jewelweed plants? Seed germination takes about 1 month 8 and the plant should reach full maturity within 4 to 5 months.

After the seedlings have been hardened, dig your holes the size of the planting pots about 18” to 24” apart. Then, place the plants inside, and cover them.

Be careful though, because these plants have very weak stems and they may break.

If you’re wondering when to plant Jewelweed for the best yield, it’s usually recommended to spread seeds in late spring after the last frost.

You can also grow the Jewelweed plant to maturity in containers; just make sure to use a high-quality potting mix, and make sure you water it more frequently to maintain moisture levels.

The Best Jewelweed Plant Growing Zone

Jewelweed is a durable flower, and it’s native to most of the United States and Canada. Zones 2 – 11 are the best growing zones for Jewelweed plants.6 Where to grow the plant on your land ultimately comes down to the soil and sun conditions.

The flower thrives in partial sun, and you just might find it growing along roadside ditches or in damp, wooded areas.2 It does well in moist, humus, slightly acidic soil.

Adding a thick layer of compost to your soil before planting can really help boost production. When growing in optimal conditions, they often form large dense groups and outcompete other plants.

Many wonder how far apart to plant Jewelweed. The general rule is you should always avoid planting Jewelweed too close together; about 18” to 24” of space will give the plants enough room to thrive.

Caring for the Jewelweed Plant (AKA Jewel Weed, Touch Me Not)

Caring for the Jewelweed plant is relatively easy—this durable flower doesn’t need much to thrive. So long as it receives regular watering in the spring and a thin layer of mulch or fertilizer, you won’t have to worry about it.

Once established, the watering needs for Jewelweed plants are minimal. The flowers also grow very dense by summer, which discourages weed growth; however, it’s important to weed regularly during the spring.

Closeup shot of the Jewelweed flowers showing orange blooms with speckles of red on the petals and green leaves with serrated edges.

(Image: Fritzflohrreynolds9)

Many gardeners also wonder how much sunlight does Jewelweed plant need each day. Approximately 6 hours per day is ideal, but it can also thrive in deep or partial shade.7

Jewelweed can tolerate direct morning sunlight, but direct overhead afternoon sun can be too harsh. The “touch me not” can survive in hot, humid climates, but does not do well in cold weather, and frost or freezing temperatures will ultimately kill it.3

Jewelweed does not need to be pruned; however, you may choose to trim off the seed pods if you’d like to prevent propagation in future seasons.8

Common pests of the Jewelweed plant include spider mites, aphids, gnats, fruit flies, mealybugs, and scale insects. White-tail deer are known to graze on its foliage.1

Investing in natural pest control for Jewelweed plants is often an effective way to deter both animals and pests. Insecticidal soaps and wiping the leaves with rubbing alcohol.

How To Stop Jewelweed Plant Disease

If you notice dark spots on flowers or leaves or blight, it might mean your Jewelweed plants have developed rot or disease. If this is the case, carefully prune diseased flowers immediately and dispose of them.

Avoid overwatering (especially in the evening) and remove any nearby plants to help promote air circulation.

Jewelweed Uses

Native Americans historically used Jewelweed sap to treat rashes and skin irritations and relieve pain from common ailments.2 It was also taken by mouth to treat mild digestive issues.

There is no evidence to support the effectiveness of Jewelweed plant disease prevention strategies or that these plants are capable of treating ailments.

So what are the benefits of a Jewelweed plant? Today, these heirloom plants primarily serve as beautiful native flowers for landscape gardening.

When it comes to Jewelweed plant symbolism, the plant is associated with water and the planet Venus. Some believe that flowers have the power to bring joy and alleviate suffering.

Its species name “capensis” means “of the cape”, which was given because the origin  of the Jewelweed plant was mistaken as South Africa.1

Frequently Asked Questions About Jewelweed Plant

What Are Some Companion Plants for Growing Jewelweed?

Jewelweed looks great planted next to white turtlehead, ironweed, white snakeroot, and other showy white native flowers.

What Is the Jewelweed Plant Growth Rate?

The plant will reach full maturity in about 5 months (April – August).

What Are the Best Growing Conditions for Jewelweed Plants?

Moist, slightly acidic soil, partial sun (6 hours per day), no direct afternoon sunlight, and warm temperatures.

Where Can You Find the Common Jewelweed?

Shady areas, low woodlands, marshes, and along lakes and streams.

Can I Add an Orange Jewelweed to My Garden?

Yes, Orange Jewelweed is one of the most aesthetically pleasing North American native plants, and it makes a great addition to any backyard garden so long as it’s planted in partial shade.

How Do I Plant Jewelweed Seeds?

Apply a thin layer of fertilizer and gently spread the seeds over the surface. Make sure they’re not covered (sunlight is important) and water regularly until established.

Does Jewelweed Require Maintenance?

Jewelweed doesn’t need much maintenance. Regular watering is important until the plant is established, and pruning isn’t recommended unless you’re attempting to control the spread of seeds.


References

1Mahr, S. (2024). Jewelweed, Impatiens capensis. Wisconsin Horticulture. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from <https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/jewelweed-impatiens-capensis/>

2Karriker, K. (2024). Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis). USDA Forest Service. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from <https://www.fs.usda.gov/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/impatiens_capensis.shtml>

3Johnson, T. W. (2024). Out My Backdoor: Jewelweed a Rare Backyard Plant. Georgia Wildlife Resources Division. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from <https://georgiawildlife.com/out-my-backdoor-jewelweed-rare-backyard-plant>

4Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board. (2024). Spotted Jewelweed. Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from <https://www.nwcb.wa.gov/weeds/spotted-jewelweed>

5Conservation Commission of Missouri. (2024). Spotted Touch-Me-Not (Jewelweed). Missouri Department of Conservation. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from <https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/spotted-touch-me-not-jewelweed>

6Georgia Native Plant Society. (2024). Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis). Georgia Native Plant Society. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from <https://gnps.org/plant/jewelweed-impatiens-capensis/>

7N.C. Cooperative Extension. (2024). Impatiens capensis. North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from <https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/impatiens-capensis/>

8Lesser, J. (2023, May 16). How to Grow and Care for Jewelweed. The Spruce. Retrieved March 14, 2024, from <https://www.thespruce.com/growing-jewelweed-plants-5088278>

9Impatiens capensis – Spotted Jewelweed 2 Photo by Fritzflohrreynolds. (2013, June 28) / CC BY-SA 3.0 DEED | Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported. Cropped and changed file format. Wikimedia Commons. Retrieved April 8, 2024, from <https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Impatiens_capensis_-_Spotted_Jewelweed_2.jpg>