himalayan balsam

Impatiens glandulifera

what does it look like?

Himalayan Balsam is the tallest annual plant found in the British Isles, growing to more than 2-3m in height. Each plant can produce 800 seeds which are released explosively from the seed pods, travelling distances of up to 7m. Seeds which are transported by water can remain viable for up to 2 years.

why is it a problem?

Due to its vigorous growth, Himalayan Balsam soon dominates and suffocates all other plants within its vicinity. On river banks this can cause major problems of erosion.