Balsam Family

Herbs, sometimes shrubby, with often succulent stems. Leaves alternate, opposite or whorled, simple. Inflorescences axillary, less often terminal or solitary. Flowers bisexual, zygomorphic. Sepals 3(5), the posterior large, petaloid and nearly always spurred, the lateral small. Petals 5, the anterior one always large, flat or helmet-shaped; the 4 lower ones usually connate in pairs, usually deeply 2-lobed. Stamens 5. Ovary superior, 5-locular. Fruit a capsule.

The Balsaminaceae (commonly known as the balsam family) are a family of dicotyledonous plants, comprising two genera: Impatiens, which consists of over 1000 species, and Hydrocera, consisting of 1 species. The flowering plants may be annual or perennial. They are found throughout temperate and tropical regions, primarily in Asia and Africa, but also North America and Europe.

Notable members of the family include jewelweed and busy Lizzie.