Himalayan balsam, kiss-me-on-the-mountain, policeman’s helmet
Due to its size, Impatiens glandulifera can grow up to two meters high, making the Himalayan balsam a plant that is hard to miss. It is an herbaceous annual and forms dense stands in suitable locations.
Its zygomorphic flowers, which appear in Central Europe from late June to September, are also striking. They can be light pink, pink, or white in color and are large enough to accommodate even bumblebees for pollination.
Impatiens glandulifera is native to India, Nepal, and Pakistan. As an ornamental plant, this balsam has also conquered other regions in Australia, New Zealand, Central and North America, and Europe.
It prefers moist to wet locations such as riverbanks and sparse forests. However, Himalayan balsam can also be found on embankments and dams. It grows in full sun as well as in partial shade.
Family: Balsaminaceae
Origin: Asia Nepal, Pakistan, West Himalaya) and as an introduced species in other regions (distribution map)
Categories: Red & Pink Flowers | White flowers |
