Balsam camellia or Vanka wet

This popular favorite is also affectionately called "Vanka wet" or "light". Balsam is native to India, southern China and Malaysia. It is a slender, graceful and unpretentious plant. Why "Vanka"?

The fact is that the camellia balsam was brought to our region in 1596, and since then it has become a favorite indoor flower of many housewives, so they affectionately named it "Vanka". Balsam's stems are straight, juicy, translucent and smooth. Touching them, you can feel the cool moisture. If the stalk of a plant is accidentally broken off, then sweetish juice will flow abundantly from it. When a thunderstorm approaches, in inclement weather, or simply with abundant watering, droplets of moisture are released on the foliage - that's why they called it "Vanka wet".

Balsam blooms from 6 to 8 months, in rare cases flowering can last a whole year. Flowers can be planted not only in an apartment or on a balcony, but also in parks, gardens, squares. They are used to decorate the entrances of buildings, cinemas, industrial premises, shops, etc.
Balsam camellia is an unpretentious plant. Feels great in any conditions, even on northern windows. The plant only needs to be protected from direct sunlight.

"Vanka" is planted in the period from March to April, sowing seeds superficially into moist, drained soil. Then they make a greenhouse and place in a well-lit place, avoiding direct sunlight. Sprouted seedlings in early summer are planted in a permanent flowering place. It is necessary to feed the plant once every two weeks with mullein infusion or mineral fertilizer.

In winter, the flower needs to be watered less often, but regularly. With insufficient moisture and light, the plant can shed its leaves.