New Guinea Impatiens and SunPatiens are both beautiful flowering plants that can add vibrant color to any garden or landscape. While they share some similarities, there are a few key differences that can help you distinguish between the two.
1. Size and Growth Habit:
New Guinea Impatiens typically grow to be about 12-24 inches in height, with a spread of around 12-18 inches. They have a bushy and compact growth habit, making them great for borders or mass plantings. On the other hand, SunPatiens can grow larger, reaching heights of 24-36 inches and spreading up to 24-36 inches. They have a more upright and vigorous growth habit, creating a more substantial presence in the garden.
2. Sun and Shade Tolerance:
One of the most significant advantages of SunPatiens is their versatility when it comes to sunlight. Unlike traditional impatiens, which prefer shade, SunPatiens can be planted in full sun or partial shade. They can tolerate up to 6-8 hours of direct sunlight, making them suitable for both sunny and partially shaded areas of the garden. New Guinea Impatiens, on the other hand, prefer partial shade and can be susceptible to sunburn in intense sunlight.
3. Flower Size and Color:
Both New Guinea Impatiens and SunPatiens produce large, showy flowers, but there are some differences in their flower characteristics. New Guinea Impatiens typically have slightly smaller blooms compared to SunPatiens. The flowers of New Guinea Impatiens come in a wide range of colors, including shades of pink, purple, red, orange, and white. SunPatiens, on the other hand, have larger blooms and a more extensive color range, including vibrant shades of red, orange, pink, lavender, and white.
4. Flowering and Deadheading:
New Guinea Impatiens and SunPatiens both have a long blooming period, providing continuous color throughout the season. However, SunPatiens have an advantage in that they do not require deadheading. Deadheading is the process of removing spent flowers to encourage new blooms. With SunPatiens, the flowers naturally drop off when they are spent, eliminating the need for regular deadheading. This low-maintenance feature makes them a popular choice for busy gardeners.
While New Guinea Impatiens and SunPatiens share similarities in terms of their showy flowers and long blooming periods, there are distinct differences that can help you tell them apart. Consider their size and growth habit, sun and shade tolerance, flower size and color, as well as their deadheading requirements when choosing between the two for your garden or landscape.
