Usually when I hear the phrase "poor man's ..." used to describe a plant I'm a bit wary as to how fabulous it can be but such is not the case with Impatiens sodenii, dubbed "poor man's rhododendron." This semi-tropical shrub, native to the tropical East African highlands in Kenya and Tanzania, forms a woody base and semi-succulent stems, each bearing whorls of 8-inch-long, dark green shiny leaves. Beginning in spring, and continuing to nearly the first signs of frost, 3-inch white or pink flowers appear at the tips of the stems.

As with many impatiens species, these showy flowers feature attractive slender spurs. This tender perennial is an ideal shrub for a shady spot in your garden and can even manage in an area with only bright, indirect light. In coastal areas it can handle all but the hottest part of the day.

It may take a bit of a mental adjustment to think about an impatiens as a landscape shrub but I. sodenii, otherwise known as I. oliveri, elegantly serves that purpose. It will commonly reach 4 to 6 feet in height, with a spread of up to 6 feet, allowing it to be used as a foundation shrub in a shady part of your garden. The bright green foliage is attractive on its own, then adds a verdant backdrop to the nearly endless flower show. This shrub grows quickly, allowing those in zones nine and lower to grow it as an annual. For mild coastal climates, it settles in as an evergreen shrub. Use for a splash of color or even as a hedge in milder climates. Popular with hummingbirds.

Did you know?

Impatiens species are part of the balsaminaceae family, which curiously are known as touch-me-nots. Once you grab a ripe seedpod of certain species, one being our I. balfourii, you'll understand why it's called touch-me-not. The ripe pods burst explosively in your fingers, spraying seeds everywhere.

Poor man's riches

There isn't just one but three varieties of this showy shrub. Start with the pure white, named 'Madonna' (after the virgin and not the singer I'm guessing). For a touch of pink, add the rose-streaked white of 'Flash' or the newest variety, 'La Vida Rosa' (pictured), which has more dramatic pink markings.


Grow in evenly moist, fertile soil in filtered sun to bright shade. Although it is hardy to only about 30 degrees, limiting it to the nearly frost-free areas (USDA 10-11), plants damaged by a frost will often re-sprout at the base and seed can perpetuate the plant as an annual in colder climates. Prune annually after frost danger is past to shape and remove cold-damaged stems then only tip prune the rest of the year. Avoid cutting back hard as this discourages flowering.

Pests & diseases

Aphids and caterpillars can be a problem. Fungal leaf spotting may also occur.


Check your local nursery for availability. I. sodenii (or I. oliveri) is usually available in 1- or 2-gallon containers, though Annie's Annuals & Perennials ( sells the three varieties mentioned above in 4-inch pots.

Erle Nickel is a nurseryman, gardening writer and photographer who cares for a sprawling Oakland garden. E-mail him at