Latin Name: Impatiens glandulifera

Physical Description: Himalayan balsam, also known as Policeman's helmet, was introduced into North America in the early 1900's as an ornamental and is still sold in some nurseries to this day. Himalayan balsam has large showy flowers and bamboo-like stems.

Type: Annual

Habitat & Impacts: Prefers moist habitats. This species poses a particular risk to fish habitat and water quality. Himalayan balsam may come to dominate native riparian vegetation once established. Once it dies back in the fall, the exposed soil is vulnerable to erosion as it is not stabilized by any vegetation.

Method of Spread: Seed

Mechanical: The species has relatively shallow roots so hand pulling can be effective at eradicating sites of this species. Cutting can also be effective but must be conducted before seeds are set and done every year until no further plants emerge. Cattle and sheep can also be used to graze infestations, but the treatments must again be continued until no new germinant appear. The trampling by livestock in riparian areas and the waterbodies themselves may be an unacceptable consequence of this treatment option and must be considered before a grazing treatment is attempted.

Control measures should take a top-down approach along watercourses. Since the species spreads mainly by seeds flowing downstream, control should be established on the upper section of the watercourse first to prevent seeds being carried down to already treated sites.

Chemical: As it is found primarily in moist riparian habitats, chemical control methods are not recommended.

Biological: There is no biocontrol currently available.

CCCIPC Priority & Treatment Strategy: Priority 1 (new invader) Himalayan balsam has been given this ranking due to the serious implications for riparian and fish habitats.

Local Level: Hand pulling small infestations, avoid planting in gardens and flowerbeds.

Landscape Level: Hand pull