about the product
Impatiens phengklaii is a rare caudiciform species from Kanchanaburi Province, Thailand, where it grows in well-drained limestone soil with moderate sun and seasonal moisture. Described in 2004 by Tatemi Shimizu and Piyakaset Suksathan, this species develops a small swollen caudex that can reach around 15 cm, with annual stems growing up to about 30 cm. Its red to orange flowers add a delicate contrast to its sculptural base, making it a unique and collectible species for caudex enthusiasts.
sizing
Size approximately 57 mm x 50 mm, around 60 g / 0.06 kg (equivalent to around 3–5 years old)
CARING TIPS
Note
The following care guide is suggested based on the weather conditions of NSW and VIC. For other Australian states, please use this as a reference and adjust according to your local climate.
Origin
Southwestern Thailand
Seasonally dry tropical habitat
Limestone areas, rocky slopes and well-draining mineral ground
Life Cycle & Dormancy
Spring – Summer → active growth
Usually grows best from around September to March
Produces soft seasonal stems and textured green to dark leaves from the tuber
Small red-orange to pink flowers may appear during the growing season
Autumn – Winter → semi-dormant to dormant
May drop most or all leaves from June to August
Leaf and stem dieback during winter is normal due to cooler nights and lower light
Soil
Very fast draining mix
Mineral-heavy soil strongly recommended
Pumice, lava rock, coarse sand, perlite & small limestone gravel work well
Use only a small amount of organic matter
Avoid rich, water-retentive potting mix
Watering
Water when the mix is partly to almost fully dry
Spring – Summer → light to regular watering while actively growing
During humid or rainy weeks, wait longer between watering
Autumn → gradually reduce watering as stems begin to fade
Winter → keep mostly dry, especially from June to August
Do not water heavily if the plant has no active leaves or stems
Light
Bright indirect light to gentle morning sun
Morning sun is ideal
Strong filtered light encourages compact growth and healthy leaves
Protect soft leaves and stems from harsh afternoon sun during heatwaves
Best grown with bright light, warmth and very good airflow
Temperature
Best: 22–30°C
Winter nights can be too cool and damp for active growth
Winter minimum: 12–15°C recommended
Keep warm, lightly dry and well ventilated during cold periods
Move indoors or under cover during long rainy winter weeks
SHIPPING & RETURNS
Plant may drop its leaves during shipping or in Sydney’s cooler months, especially from June to August. This is normal, as the plant is deciduous and can naturally enter dormancy during autumn and winter. New leaves will usually grow back once the weather becomes warmer and brighter.
After arrival, soak the plant in water or diluted HB101 / Seasol for 3–5 hours. Then keep it in shade for 1–2 days to recover and adapt gently.
For live plants, we ship them bareroot (roots only, without soil and pot). This helps make the shipping process smoother, faster, and safer, while also greatly reducing the risk of root rot during transit.
Pots, soil mixes, and fertilizers will be packed carefully and shipped securely.
You can read the full shipping policy here.