Flowers That Look Like Impatiens
American gardeners love impatiens. In fact, they have made this flower the most popular bedding plant in the country, according to Clemson University. Colorful, compact and easy to grow, these flowers bloom even in the shade, and will readily spread to fill a border or empty space in any garden. Impatiens come in many different shapes, sizes and colors. For that reason, it is easy to find other flowers that look like impatiens.
Geraniums
Geraniums are annuals in most climates and are desirable for their wide range of colors, clusters of blooms and interesting foliage. Some varieties feature scented foliage ranging from lemon to licorice. Unlike impatiens, geraniums need at least four hours of sunlight per day to thrive, and many prefer even more than that, according to Clemson University. Geraniums thrive in moist soil, but let the soil dry out a bit between waterings. Never let the plants wilt, or the leaves will yellow and drop. Fertilize geraniums with a 10-20-10 fertilizer every four to six weeks, and mulch around the plants to preserve moisture and inhibit weed growth.
Petunias
Petunias and impatiens are both highly popular bedding plants, according to Clemson University. They even look alike and come in the same broad range of colors. One big difference between the two is that petunias thrive in full sun, whereas most impatiens will wilt if exposed to hot afternoon sunlight. Petunias are adaptable to most soils, save waterlogged areas. Well-draining soil is a must, or they will suffer from root rot. On average, petunias need between 1 and 2 inches of water per week. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage re-blooming, and pinch vertical shoots to encourage bushier plants.
Miniature Roses
At first glance, standard impatiens do not resemble roses. Hybrid varieties of impatiens that feature fully double petals, however, resemble miniature roses, according to Clemson University. Miniature roses are notable for their tiny blooms rather than the plant size. In fact, some climbing miniature roses can reach heights of 5 feet, but still feature blooms less than an inch across. Although small and dainty in appearance, miniature roses are just as disease and cold-hardy as their larger cousins, the shrub rose. They grow equally well in the ground or in a pot as long as they are provided with rich, well-draining soil and sunlight.
