Impatiens Balsamina.  Balsam Impatiens are a colorful annual that reach a height of two and a half to three feet.  The flowers are mainly red, but are quite variable.  They like full sun but can perform well in partial shade.

Seeds germinate easily and can be sown inside three weeks before the last frost or directly in the garden where the plants are to grow.

Native to India, Malaya and China, the garden balsam was introduced into Europe in 1596.  It was one of the first impatiens to be cultivated.

Heirloom seeds are collected from the gardens and grounds of George Washington's Mount Vernon and cleaned and packaged by hand.