Some facts about Himalayan balsam:

• Arrived UK in 1839.
• Annual - grows 2m typically on river banks.
• Suffocates native plants if unchecked.
• Disperses approx. 800 seeds which can last 2 years.
• Can be treated by spraying, pulling or cutting.
• It has very poor root growth so causes increased erosion to river banks when it dies back in the winter.