Himalayan Balsam in bloom

Himalayan Balsam is a non-native, very invasive plant that was introduced to Britain in 1839 due to its exotic colorful attraction. Since then it has rapidly spread especially along river banks and other damp nutrient-rich areas.

Himalayan Balsam can produce around 800 seeds per stem. The viability of these seeds is approximately 3 years so it can spread widely.

The clearance of Himalayan balsam is a fun and easy job that suite all ages. The best time to pull it is when the stems are at least 50cm tall and before the flowers produce seeds. This can be between April and late June depending on the climatic conditions of the year.

For more information click here.

In the jungle, they can grow up to 3 metres tall.

Each plant can contain 800 seeds. When they are pulled up just leave them on site (to not contaminate any other area)

The plant is mostly water, so they wilt down quickly 

Text and photos by Sufiyo Andersson