Beacon Coral Impatiens

Beacon® 'Coral Improved' is an Impatiens walleriana selection bred for denser branching and larger, rounder coral flowers than original Coral. It performs in shade and has high genetic resistance to common impatiens downy mildew populations, but it is not immune ([PanAmerican Seed](https://catalog.panamseed.com/view/811944704/12/), [University of Georgia Trial Gardens](https://ugatrial.hort.uga.edu/Trial-Year/2024/Plant-Name/Impatiens-Coral-Improved-Beacon)). ## Planting and display The breeder lists a 14–18 inch height and 12–14 inch spread, and recommends packs, pots, hanging baskets, and in-ground beds. Grow in part shade to full shade; too much bright sun can scorch the leaves. The species prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil and flowers from late spring into fall. Beacon is bred for season-long color in shade gardens ([PanAmerican Seed](https://catalog.panamseed.com/view/811944704/12/), [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/impatiens-walleriana/)). ## Trial performance In UGA's 2024 shade-ground trial, Coral Improved averaged 4.47/5 across 16 ratings. September comments called it reliable and noted the series' resistance ([University of Georgia Trial Gardens](https://ugatrial.hort.uga.edu/Trial-Year/2024/Plant-Name/Impatiens-Coral-Improved-Beacon)). ## Maintenance Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; this species has low drought tolerance and may wilt in hot, dry spells. If plants become leggy in late summer, trim back about one-third to encourage fresh blooms. In colder climates, remove plants after frost or bring containers indoors ([NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/impatiens-walleriana/)).