Family: Balsaminaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Impatiens sodenii, commonly known as poor man’s rhododendron or shrub balsam, is native to eastern Africa, including Kenya and Tanzania. It is a fast-growing, soft-wooded shrub that can reach several feet in height, with thick, succulent stems, glossy green leaves, and large, showy pink to pale lavender flowers that resemble those of rhododendrons. Because of its attractive blooms and ease of growth, it has been widely planted as an ornamental in tropical and subtropical gardens, where it is valued for adding color to shaded or partially shaded landscapes.

Risks & Threats
This species is naturalized on Kauaʻi and Maui and is potentially naturalizing on Hawaiʻi Island. It possesses several traits that are cause for concern, including rapid growth, prolific seed production, and the ability to spread into moist forest understories. Impatiens sodenii can form dense stands that outcompete native vegetation, altering light availability and ecosystem structure in sensitive habitats. Its explosive seed dispersal allows it to spread quickly along streams, trails, and disturbed areas. Because it is already naturalized and continuing to spread, it could detrimentally impact tropical island ecosystems. Gardeners and land managers are encouraged to avoid planting this species and instead choose low-risk or native alternatives if intentionally cultivated.

High Risk Traits:

• Elevation range exceeds 1000 m, demonstrating environmental versatility
  
• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Naturalized on Kauai and East Maui, Hawaiian Islands, Canary Islands, New Zealand, Colombia
  
• Possible environmental weed. Replaces other vegetation on forest floor, and prevents seedlings of native species establishing
  
• Other Impatiens species have become invasive
  
• Possibly unpalatable (deer resistant)
  
• Shade-tolerant
  
• Tolerates many soil types
  
• Forms dense stands
  
• Reproduces by seeds
  
• Spreads vegetatively
  
• Can be spread as garden waste
  
• Planted intentionally by people
  
• Fruits burst open due to internal pressure and disperse seeds
  
• Can be dispersed by water

Low Risk Traits:

• Unarmed (no spines, thorns or burrs)
  
• No reports of toxicity
  
• Ornamental
  
• Herbicides may provide effective control