Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis), also known as Spotted Touch-Me-Not, is a vibrant native wildflower that thrives in moist, shaded areas 
across the Eastern United States. Renowned for its bright orange, trumpet-shaped flowers, this plant is a favorite among hummingbirds and an essential addition to pollinator-friendly gardens.
Key Characteristics
- Zones: 2–11
- Height: 2–5 feet
- Bloom Time: July–October
- Features: Bright orange flowers with red spots and a tubular shape, paired with succulent, light-green stems.
The unique structure of Jewelweed’s flowers is perfectly adapted to attract hummingbirds. Its tubular blooms are an ideal fit for their long bills and tongues, allowing them to access the plant’s abundant nectar. The vibrant orange color is another key feature that draws hummingbirds, as they are naturally attracted to warm tones.
This video tells all you need to know about the awesome hummingbird magnet, Jewel weed. When it comes to pollinator gardening the native perennials get most of the attention. However, there are many native annuals that make a great addition to the pollinator garden. The common jewelweed, Impatiens capensis, and pale jewelweed, Impatiens pallida, are two eye-catching native annual species that have super showy blooms that attract a wide variety of bees, butterflies, and the beloved ruby throated hummingbird. The jewelweeds grow well in wetter shaded areas and also self-seed, so they do not have to be replanted every year.
Natural Habitat
Jewelweed thrives in damp environments such as stream banks, wetlands, and forest edges. It prefers partial to full shade and moist soil, making it an excellent choice for rain gardens or naturalized areas with poor drainage. In the wild, it often grows in dense colonies, creating a rich feeding ground for pollinators.
Care and Maintenance
- Jewelweed is a self-sufficient plant that requires minimal care:
- Plant it in moist, shaded areas with rich soil.
- Allow it to self-seed naturally; its explosive seed pods ensure new plants will grow each year.
- Avoid overwatering in already damp conditions.
Ecological Benefits
Jewelweed supports not only hummingbirds but also butterflies and bees. Additionally, it provides habitat for insects and its seeds are a food source for birds. The plant’s ability to outcompete invasive species like garlic mustard makes it ecologically valuable.
Why Choose Jewelweed?
With its vibrant flowers, ecological importance, and ability to thrive in challenging conditions, Jewelweed is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to attract hummingbirds while supporting native ecosystems. Its beauty and resilience make it a standout addition to any shade garden or wetland area.
Such a cool little flower that is so common on roadside and in wet areas. The genus “Impatiens” comes from the Greek “impatient.” This has to do with the dried fruit that “explosively dehisce.” The species name, according to one source, is in reference to Capetown, South Africa, but it is a North American species. Regardless, spending time, “On the Ground,” with these beautiful flowers has been fantastic. I hope you enjoy
What are the unique characteristics of Jewelweed that attract hummingbirds
Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis), also known as Spotted Touch-Me-Not, is a native annual wildflower with several unique traits that make it highly appealing to hummingbirds. Its vibrant flowers, nectar-rich blooms, and ecological timing ensure it plays a vital role in supporting these pollinators.
- Bright Orange Flowers
Jewelweed produces striking orange flowers with red spots, which are highly visible to hummingbirds. The bright coloration acts as a visual cue, 
making the plant easy to locate in shaded or wet areas. Hummingbirds are naturally drawn to warm colors like orange and red, which signal a reliable nectar source.
- Tubular Nectar Spurs
The flowers of Jewelweed feature curved, tubular spurs filled with nectar. These spurs are perfectly adapted to the long bills and tongues of hummingbirds, allowing them to access nectar deep within the flower. The unique structure ensures efficient pollination, as hummingbirds transfer pollen between flowers while feeding.
- High Sugar Content in Nectar
Jewelweed’s nectar is exceptionally rich in sugar, with concentrations reaching up to 40%. This is significantly higher than the nectar produced by many other plants (typically 20–33%), making it an energy-dense food source for hummingbirds. The high sugar content is particularly beneficial during migration when hummingbirds need to build energy reserves.
- Seasonal Blooming
Jewelweed blooms from late summer through fall, coinciding with the southward migration of Ruby-throated Hummingbirds. This synchronization ensures that Jewelweed serves as a critical food source when other nectar plants have finished flowering.
- Dense Colonies
Jewelweed often grows in large patches in damp environments like stream banks and wetlands. These dense colonies provide hummingbirds with abundant feeding opportunities, reducing their reliance on artificial feeders.
With its vivid flowers, specialized spurs, and high-sugar nectar, Jewelweed is an essential native plant for attracting hummingbirds while supporting their migration and overall health.
Natural Pest Control Methods for Your Hummingbird Garden
Creating a thriving hummingbird garden is a rewarding experience. However, maintaining it while keeping pests at bay can be challenging. Fortunately, there are numerous natural pest control methods that can protect your garden’s delicate ecosystem. Click the link above to find out how to naturally control pests in your hummingbird garden.
A few additions that will make any garden more hummingbird friendly
Provide nesting materials like cotton, pet fur, or plant fibers. You can place these materials in suet cages or spread them around your garden.
Water Sources
Hummingbirds enjoy fresh water to drink and bathe. A shallow birdbath with a fine spray from a mister is ideal. Just make sure the water is changed regularly to keep it clean.
Here’s a solar powered bird bath.
Hummingbird misters at Amazon.com
Install shallow bird baths with gently sloping edges. Hummingbirds prefer water sources that are no more than 1-1.5 inches deep.
Consider adding a mister or dripperto create moving water, which attracts hummingbirds. They often enjoy flying through fine sprays of water.
A hummingbird perch is a good way to attract hummingbirds to a particular spot near your feeder
hummingbird perches
A major component of any successful hummingbird garden is a dependable hummingbird feeder that is easy to clean and doesn’t leak.
One of the best Hummingbird feeders that’s easy to take apart and clean is the HummZinger Ultra.
Aspects 12oz HummZinger UltraWith Nectar Guard.
The HummZinger Ultra12oz Saucer Feeder is one of the best options for a hummingbird feeder that’s both easy to clean and maintain. This top-tier feeder features patented Nectar Guard tips—flexible membranes on the feeding ports that keep flying insects out while still allowing hummingbirds to feed freely. Plus, it comes with an integrated ant moat to prevent crawling insects from reaching the nectar, and the raised flower ports help divert rain, keeping the nectar fresh.
With a 12 oz capacity, this mid-size feeder offers plenty of space and can be hung or mounted on a post using the included hardware. It has four feeding ports and is made from durable, unbreakable polycarbonate. Whether you’re concerned about bees, wasps, or ants, this feeder is built for easy cleaning and insect protection.
Hummingbird Resources
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – Hummingbird Conservation
This site offers detailed information about various hummingbird species, their habitats, and conservation efforts. It also provides resources on how to protect these fascinating birds.
National Park Service – Hummingbird Resources
The National Park Service offers insights into hummingbird species found in national parks, their behaviors, and their role in ecosystems, along with tips for observing them.
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History – Birds: Hummingbirds
This resource provides educational materials on the role of hummingbirds in pollination and biodiversity, backed by scientific research and exhibits from the Smithsonian.
