Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' – plant photoSource: Wikimedia Commonscultivar413 from Fallbrook, CaliforniaCC BY 2.0

Compact Red (Impatiens sunpatiens ‘Compact Red’)

Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red'
Use in sunny borders, mixed beds, patio containers, window boxes, and balcony planters. In hot climates, afternoon shade can reduce wilting and water stress; in cooler climates, more sun generally supports stronger flowering. Yes

Compact Red (Impatiens sunpatiens ‘Compact Red’) short overview

Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' is a compact, mounded bedding plant with vivid red flowers and glossy green foliage. It performs in full sun or partial shade, provided the soil stays evenly moist without becoming saturated. In most of the United States it is grown as a warm-season annual, flowering continuously from spring through fall and often until the first hard frost. It is especially useful in containers, borders, and colorful seasonal plantings.

Taxonomy

Taxonomic classification

Plant familyBalsaminaceae
GenusImpatiens
Plant groupImpatiens
Plant typeTender hybrid bedding perennial, usually grown as a warm-season annual
OriginCultivated horticultural hybrid developed by Sakata; not a wild native taxon
Accepted scientific nameImpatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red'
Quick overview

Compact Red (Impatiens sunpatiens ‘Compact Red’) care guide

Key requirements
LightFull sun to partial shade
WaterConsistently moist
HardinessFrost tender
SoilFertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil that retains moisture
Size14–24 inches × 12–20 inches
BloomSpring through fall, often until hard frost
HumidityAverage to high summer humidity is tolerated, but good air circulation is important when foliage stays wet.
Soil pHSlightly acidic, approximately 5.8–6.2 in production
Feeding needsBalanced fertilizer every two weeks during active growth
Minimum temperature32°F; protect from freezing temperatures
USDA zoneUSDA Zones 10–11 as a tender perennial; annual elsewhere
Growth rateFast

Light and placement

Give full sun to partial shade. Morning sun with afternoon shade is a reliable placement in hot regions, while cooler areas can support more direct sun. Too little light produces stretched growth and fewer flowers; intense heat combined with dry soil causes midday wilting, leaf scorch, or flower decline.

Watering and humidity

Water deeply whenever the surface begins to dry, keeping the root zone evenly moist but never saturated. Containers may need frequent watering during hot, sunny weather. Reduce frequency in cool or cloudy periods, and always allow excess water to drain. Moisture stress can cause wilting even though established plants often recover quickly.

Soil and growing medium

Use a fertile, humus-rich potting mix or garden soil that drains freely while retaining steady moisture. A slightly acidic medium is suitable; commercial production guidance places the preferred pH around 5.8–6.2. Avoid compacted soil and containers without drainage holes.

Feeding

Feed during active growth with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at label strength about every two weeks, or use a controlled-release product at planting. Do not fertilize drought-stressed, newly transplanted, or waterlogged plants; water first and resume feeding after recovery.

Growth and habit

Forms a compact, rounded to mounded plant with vigorous seasonal growth. It generally needs no routine pinching, although light cutting back can rejuvenate a sparse or stretched plant after heat or drought stress. Consistent moisture supports fuller branching and flowering.

Planting

Planting and repotting

Planting timeAfter the last spring frost, once soil has warmed
Planting depthPlant at the same depth as the nursery root ball
Spacing12–20 inches

Plant outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed. Set plants at the same depth as their nursery containers, with at least 12 inches between plants; allow more room where a larger finish is desired. Water thoroughly after planting and maintain even moisture while roots establish.

Repotting

Move container plants into fresh, well-drained mix when roots fill the pot or growth slows. Transplant after frost danger has passed, disturbing the root ball as little as practical. Choose a container with drainage and enough volume to support frequent watering.

Practical tasks

Propagation and pruning

Propagation

Propagate commercially by softwood cuttings. Take healthy non-flowering shoots, root them in a clean, airy medium under mist, and reduce mist promptly after rooting. The cultivar is protected and is not intended for unauthorized commercial propagation.

Pruning

Routine deadheading is usually unnecessary because flowers are self-cleaning. If plants become leggy or sparse, cut them back by up to about half, then water thoroughly and resume feeding once new growth begins. Remove damaged stems with clean tools.

Seasonal care

Overwintering

Treat as an annual in most of the United States. In USDA Zones 10–11, it may persist through mild winters if protected from frost. Container plants can be moved indoors before temperatures approach freezing, but low indoor light and dry air often reduce quality.

Practical use

Uses

Valued as a seasonal bedding plant for borders, mass color, containers, window boxes, and balconies. Its tolerance of both sun and partial shade makes it useful where conventional impatiens would be too shade-dependent. It is ornamental rather than a food or medicinal crop.

Identification and habit

Appearance

The plant has succulent, green stems, glossy lance-shaped leaves with serrated margins, and a dense mounded outline. Its most distinctive feature is the strong contrast between the green foliage and saturated red impatiens flowers. The Compact series is shorter and more contained than vigorous SunPatiens selections.

Flowering

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Flower colors
Red
Flower form
Impatiens-type, nectar-bearing flowers with a rear spurFlower form
ScentUnscented
Flower sizeMedium

This cultivar produces showy, single-looking red impatiens flowers continuously through the growing season under suitable warmth, moisture, and light. SunPatiens selections are bred to flower in both sun and shade and commonly continue from spring through autumn, often until hard frost.

Ecological relationships

Pollination and visitors

The open, nectar-bearing impatiens flowers can be visited by bees, bumblebees, and butterflies. Documentation for this named cultivar is limited, so no single pollinator species is assigned. Visits are most likely during the flowering season in warm, productive weather.

Plant protection

Diseases and pests

Diseases

Good drainage, adequate spacing, and avoiding prolonged leaf wetness help reduce disease pressure. Watch for downy mildew, fungal leaf spots, gray mold, root rots, and viral symptoms such as distorted or mottled foliage. Remove badly affected plants, avoid overhead irrigation, and do not replant impatiens in contaminated soil.

Pests

Scout for aphids, thrips, whiteflies, spider mites, and fungus gnats. Check leaf undersides and new growth regularly. Improve airflow, remove heavily infested tissue, and use insecticidal soap or another labeled treatment according to its directions. Avoid unnecessary broad-spectrum insecticides during bloom.

Safety and allergens

Toxicity and pollen

ToxicityGenerally regarded as non-poisonous

Impatiens is listed by Poison Control as a non-poisonous plant, and ASPCA resources include impatiens among plants covered by their safety database. Exact cultivar-specific toxicology is limited, so avoid deliberate ingestion; any plant material may still cause mild digestive upset or choking, especially in children and pets.

Pollen and allergyLow airborne pollen concern
Typical season
Spring through fall
Pollination / pollen
Insect-dispersed pollen

As an insect-pollinated bedding hybrid, it is not usually considered a major airborne-pollen source. The low rating reflects limited expected airborne dispersal, not a guarantee of zero allergy risk; sensitive people may still react to plant contact or nearby floral material.

Dogs Not generally considered toxic; large ingestions may still upset the stomach.
Cats Not generally considered toxic; large ingestions may cause digestive upset.
Children Not classified as poisonous, but do not allow children to eat plant parts.
Affected plant parts All plant parts should be kept out of the mouth despite the low toxicity classification.
Natural environment

Native habitat

This is a cultivated interspecific hybrid rather than a wild native plant. It is adapted to warm, humid summer conditions and performs in fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soils. It has no meaningful native North American habitat or natural distribution.

Good to know

Interesting fact

SunPatiens were bred to combine impatiens flower display with improved sun and heat tolerance. The Compact series is selected for a smaller habit and container production. The cultivar is protected under the breeder designation 'SAKIMP030'.

Questions and answers

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

25 questions

The most relevant questions about this plant, with short and direct answers.

🌱Quick care

How do you care for Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red'?

Grow it in full sun to partial shade, fertile well-drained soil, and consistently moist conditions. Water whenever the surface begins to dry, especially during hot weather, and feed container plants regularly during active growth.

Is Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' an annual or perennial?

In most of the United States, Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' is grown as a frost-tender annual. It can survive year-round outdoors only in reliably warm areas roughly equivalent to USDA Zones 10–11.

🌤️Environment and placement

How much sun does Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' need?

It performs well in full sun to partial shade and generally flowers best with at least four hours of direct sunlight daily. In very hot climates, afternoon shade can reduce wilting and heat stress.

Can Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' grow in full sun?

Yes, this SunPatiens cultivar is bred to tolerate full sun better than traditional impatiens. Establish it well, keep the soil consistently moist, and provide some afternoon shade if intense heat causes repeated midday wilting.

Can Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' grow in shade?

Yes, it tolerates partial shade and filtered light, but reduced light usually produces fewer flowers and a less compact display. Bright morning sun with protection from the hottest afternoon rays is a reliable placement in hot regions.

What soil is best for Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red'?

Use fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. Improve poor ground with compost or other organic matter, but avoid sites where water stands after rain.

Can Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' grow in containers?

Yes, it grows well in containers, patio planters, window boxes, and hanging baskets. Use a quality potting mix with drainage holes and check moisture frequently because containers dry out faster than garden soil.

💧Care and problems

How often should you water Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red'?

Water when the soil surface begins to dry, keeping the root zone consistently moist. Frequency depends on heat, wind, rainfall, and container size; avoid both prolonged drought and saturated soil.

Why is Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' wilting in the afternoon?

Temporary midday wilting is common during intense heat, even when the plant recovers by evening. Check the soil before watering, then improve moisture consistency, add mulch, or provide afternoon shade if wilting is severe or persistent.

Why are the leaves on Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' turning yellow?

Yellow leaves commonly result from overwatering, poor drainage, excess rain, or insufficient nutrients. Check that the soil drains freely, allow the surface to dry slightly between waterings, and use a balanced fertilizer according to its label.

Does Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' need fertilizer?

Yes, regular feeding supports its fast growth and prolonged flowering, especially in containers. Apply a balanced liquid or controlled-release fertilizer according to the product label, avoiding excessive fertilizer that can damage roots.

What pests affect Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red'?

Aphids, spider mites, slugs, and vine weevils may affect it, particularly under stressed or protected growing conditions. Inspect foliage regularly and manage pests promptly with methods labeled for ornamental plants.

Does Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' need deadheading?

No, deadheading is generally unnecessary because the plant continues flowering without removing spent blooms. You can remove faded flowers and damaged leaves for a tidier appearance.

Can Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' survive frost?

No, it is frost tender and can be damaged or killed by freezing temperatures. Protect it before the first frost, and do not plant it outdoors until the risk of frost has passed.

Can you overwinter Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' indoors?

You can try overwintering it indoors, but it is not an easy houseplant and needs very bright light, careful watering, and pest monitoring. In most U.S. climates, replacing it the following spring is more reliable.

🪴Planting and repotting

When should you plant Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' outdoors?

Plant it after the danger of frost has passed and nighttime temperatures are consistently mild, ideally when soil temperatures are above 60°F. Cold soil or frost can stunt or kill this frost-tender plant.

How far apart should you plant Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red'?

Space plants about 8–12 inches apart for a relatively quick, full planting, adjusting the distance for container size and the desired fill-in time. Give wider spacing where better airflow is important.

Can Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' be planted in a garden bed?

Yes, it is well suited to borders, mass plantings, woodland edges, and mixed flower beds. Choose a site with fertile, moisture-retentive soil that still drains freely after heavy rain.

✂️Propagation and pruning

Can you propagate Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' from cuttings?

It can be propagated from softwood cuttings, which may root under warm, humid conditions. Because this is a cultivated cultivar, check the plant label and applicable plant-patent restrictions before propagating for distribution or sale.

Should Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' be pruned?

Routine pruning is not usually necessary, but light trimming can restore a compact shape or reduce legginess. Remove no more than about one-third of the plant at a time and keep it watered while it regrows.

⚠️Toxicity and safety

Is Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' toxic to people or pets?

It is generally regarded as non-poisonous, but eating ornamental plants can still cause mild stomach upset in some people or pets. Prevent ingestion of treated plants and contact a medical or veterinary professional if symptoms occur.

Is Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' deer resistant?

No, it should not be considered reliably deer resistant. Deer may browse it, especially when other moisture-rich, tender plants are scarce, so use physical protection or a properly labeled repellent where browsing is common.

🌸Flowering and special interest

How long does Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' bloom?

It can bloom from late spring or early summer until frost when provided with warmth, moisture, and sufficient light. Blooming may slow temporarily after severe drought, transplanting, or cold weather.

Why is Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' not flowering?

Insufficient light, drought stress, excessive shade, cold temperatures, or poor nutrition can reduce flowering. Move containers to brighter light when possible, maintain even moisture, and fertilize according to the label.

How large does Impatiens sunpatiens 'Compact Red' get?

As a compact SunPatiens type, it commonly reaches about 14–28 inches tall in the ground, with a rounded, spreading habit. Final size varies with climate, fertility, moisture, container volume, and spacing.

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Verifiability

Sources and data reliability

90–95%; cultivar-specific care data are strong, while pollinator and pollen evidence is mainly based on Impatiens and hybrid-group information.