Jewelweed
Order: Lamiales
Family: Oleaceae
Genus: Impatiens
Species: I. capensis
General Characteristics: This native plant is a summer annual that becomes 2-5' tall, branching occasionally. The round stems are glabrous and succulent, pale green to pale reddish green, and somewhat translucent. They are rather fragile and break easily. The alternate leaves are up to 5" long and 2½" across, although they are usually about half this size. The leaves are ovate, thin-textured, and hairless. There are low broad teeth along their margins. While the stems are often shiny, the leaves have a dull upper surface. The slender petioles are up to 2" long and usually shorter than the blades of the leaves.
Special Adaptations: Jewelweed also holds an element of surprise inside its tiny seedpods that form in late summer. The edible seeds inside are held under great pressure until slightly touched by animal or human. Then, the seeds are launched into the air up to five feet away from the plant. Try cupping your hands around a seedpod until it bursts and enjoy the seeds for a tasty treat.
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