Old fashioned garden balsam (Impatiens balsamina) is a favorite of hummingbirds in my garden. This native of China and India is related to bedding impatiens. It is very easy to grow from seed, blooming from early summer until frost. The pink, purple and white flowers appear close to the stem and are slightly hidden by the leaves, adding a bit of mystery to the plant. Staking is never required because the stems are thick and sturdy. Balsam transplants very well, even when in bloom. It reseeds in sunny, unmulched areas of my garden. I started it with a package of seed years ago and have never had to replant.
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