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Indian (Himalayan) balsam
(Impatiens glandulifera)
-Ray-Woods.jpg)
Indian (or Himalayan) balsam © R G Woods/Plantlife
A non-native invasive plant.
Indian balsam spreads quickly as it can project its seeds up to four metres. Many seeds drop into the water and contaminate land and riverbanks downstream, but the explosive nature of its seed release means it can spread upstream too.
It is one of the species we keep track of in our Wildflowers Count survey - click here to find out how you can help out.
Habitat
Commonly found along riverbanks and streams.
What's the problem?
As well as its ability to spread rapidly, Indian balsam produces a lot of nectar over a prolonged season and is attractive to pollinating insects.
Because it attracts bees, there is concern that it presence may result in decreased pollination for other native plants.
What are we doing about it?
Find out more about Plantlife's invasive plant programme by clicking here.