Himalayan Balsam is a prohibited noxious weed that is commonly found on lake shores and wet areas with moist, rich soil. It is a summer annual plant with shallow roots that only reproduces by seed. It can grow up to 3 meters tall and poses a problem on lake shores and creeks where it can out compete native vegetation and cause erosion since its roots are shallow. It features stalked, lance shaped leaves that are opposite on the stem. Flowers are pink to purple and occur in groups of 5 on the upper leaf axils.
Since this plant is considered prohibited noxious under the Weed Control Act, it must be destroyed. If you see this plant on your property, please remove it and burn it. Mature plants can catapult seeds from their seed pods so please try and ensure you remove it before seed set.
A detailed guide of identifying and controlling Himalayan Balsam can be read here.
