Invasive Species

Himalyan Balsam is at first glance an attractive plant that grows along rivers or at the edge of woods in Ireland.  In recent years it has spread along the Nore and now forms large tracks in some areas. 

Himalyan Balsam is at first glance an attractive plant that grows along rivers or at the edge of woods in Ireland.  In recent years it has spread along the Nore and now forms large tracks in some areas. 
The plant is native to the western Himalayas but is now invasive in many parts of continental Europe.  It can form dense stands where individual plants can reach 2m in height blocking out native species. 

From October onwards, the plants die back leaving the soil more exposed to erosion because of the very short root system which does nothing to stabilise the bank and the loss of native plants earlier in the year. They grow upright, easily broken and are usually purple in colour with many large oval-shaped pointed.  The flowers of this plant can vary in colour but are usually shades of white, pink or purple and are easily recognisable. Flowering usually takes place from June to October

Seed capsules arise when the flowers are mature and when ripe the slightest touch causes these fruits to split open explosively dispersing seeds up to 20 feet from the parent plant.  Plants can bear up to 800 seeds each combined with their dramatic dispersal method, makes them very prolific and they can be easily spread by water, animals and humans.

In recent years Keep Kilkenny Beautiful, Nore Vision, Thomastown Weir Trust and other groups have worked to remove the plant.  Due to its relatively small root system, the plant can be easily pulled up.  .  Its essential that this work is done before the seeds appear which is usually in late July.  Nore Vision has delivered training on invasive species through out the catchment.  We are currently mapping Himalyan Balsam so we can co-ordinate and effectively manage the species.  If you know of any stands of the plant please get in touch.