Unknown plant in Alberta

Discussion in 'Plants: Identification' started by comet, Aug 21, 2007.

  1. comet

    comet Member

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    Hello, I am wondering what kind of plant this is- am able to root it in water and planted in vermiculite. Seems sensitive to any root disturbance. The host plant came back up in the spring and has an unusual flower. The leaves grow in threes. thank you for any help you can provide
     

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  2. abgardeneer

    abgardeneer Active Member

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    It appears to be a rather unhappy specimen of Impatiens glandulifera. (By this time of year, it should be about 5' tall.) Common names: himalayan impatiens, himalayan orchid, policeman's helmet, etc.. It's an annual, so it presumably returned from seed. Available from garden centers, and grown as bedding-out plants, or from seed.
     
  3. Michael F

    Michael F Paragon of Plants Forums Moderator 10 Years

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    Methinks you mean Himalayan Balsam - it isn't an orchid!

    Widely regarded as an invasive weed (except for people in the Himalaya, of course!), so it might be a good thing it isn't doing well.
     
  4. abgardeneer

    abgardeneer Active Member

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    Yeah, I know it isn't an orchid, but that's one of those strange common names in these parts.
     
  5. Michael F

    Michael F Paragon of Plants Forums Moderator 10 Years

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    Best not to promote them! Stick to what's more informative.
     
  6. abgardeneer

    abgardeneer Active Member

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    Personally, I am in total agreement... common names cause much confusion. However, sometimes a light goes on for people when they link the plant in question with a common name they've heard of, e.g. "Himalayan balsam". Other than for the linguistic interest added by the occasionally charming ("forget-me-not", "ratstripper") or evocative ("stinkweed") common name, I say wipe 'em all out, LOL!
     
  7. comet

    comet Member

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    thank you so much one and all!!
     

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