Victorian villain

Threat to river banks

Q What is Himalayan balsam?

A Impatiens glandulifera was introduced in the UK by Victorians as an ornamental plant.

Q Why is it a problem?

A It has dense foliage which crowds out native plants. It can take over whole areas of river and canal banks and when it dies back in winter leaves the banks bare. They then become more susceptible to erosion and crumble into the water.

Q Does it harm wildlife?

A Yes. It reduces availability of native food and habitat and eroded banks can also affect fish spawning beds.

Q Where is it and how does it spread?

A Found across England and Wales, it has up to 800 seeds per plant which spread explosively.

Q How can it be controlled?

A By pulling it up before the seeds develop or with chemical controls.