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western touch-me-not

Scientific Name: Impatiens noli-tangere

Family: Balsaminaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual

Other Names:

       

Impatiens noli-tangere: The Elusive Touch-Me-Not

Impatiens noli-tangere, a plant with an intriguing name and explosive seed dispersal, is a fascinating addition to any botanical study. Learn more about its characteristics, distribution, and ecological significance below.

Considerations for Pets

  • The name "touch-me-not" refers to the plant's seed capsules, which burst open and disperse seeds when touched. This explosive seed dispersal might startle or interest pets.

Scientific Name and Common Names

  • Scientific Name: Impatiens noli-tangere L.
  • Common Names: Touch-me-not, Western touch-me-not, Yellow Balsam, Jewelweed, Wild Balsam, Touch-me-not Balsam

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Family: Balsaminaceae (Balsam Family or Touch-me-not Family)
  • Synonym: Impatiens

Distribution and Habitat

  • Impatiens noli-tangere is found in Eurasia and North America.
  • Specifically mentioned locations include: Sweden, Bavaria (Germany), Lorraine (France), Romania, Western North America, India, and the Western Himalaya.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Impatiens noli-tangere is an annual herbaceous plant (annual forb).

Quirky Facts

  • The species name "noli-tangere" is Latin for "touch me not," referring to the explosive seed dispersal mechanism.