Himalayan Balsam

Himalayan Balsam, as the name suggests, is native to parts of the Himalayas, and is widespread across the UK.

The key identifying features of this invasive species include:

  • Trumpet shaped pink petals
  • Up to 2m tall with leaves up to 15cm in length

Stem is green to red in winter and turns pink in the summer months.

A close-up of Himalayan Balsam plant with trumpet shaped pink flowers.

Himalayan Balsam (GBNNSS)

What we can do

We can remove Himalayan Balsam within our parks, green spaces, and verges. However, we cannot remove Himalayan Balsam from private property.

Actions

If you believe you have seen Himalayan Balsam in our parks or green spaces (and not their native counterparts) please report this through fix my street. Do not try to remove it yourselves, if it is in our parks and open spaces.