Himalayan balsam, a relative of the Busy Lizzie, was introduced to the UK from Asia in the 19th century and was thought to have been introduced to gardens in Guernsey in the 70s. 

It grows to around 10 metres tall between June and October and produces many pink flowers and can thrive in low light. 

If left unchecked it can lead to an uncontrolled spread causing harm to native plant and insect species which has occurred in some areas of the UK.  

The remaining balsams are thought to be away from areas targeted during removal efforts as nothing has been identified in those areas. 

People are asked to check and report any plants to the States as soon as possible since the plants are now going to seed. 

A photography should be emailed to aclms@gov.gg or reported to 01481 220110. 

Pictured: A closeup of the flowers.

Francis Russell, ACLMS Non-Native Invasive Species Team, said the plant was mainly removed from private gardens but there may be more areas where it’s persisted. 

“We rely on the public’s interest and support in reporting this and any other invasive species. We are also grateful for their goodwill to allow us to access their land to remove it once it’s been identified,” he said. 

“As an annual plant it is quite distinctive and very easy to remove before it spreads hundreds of seeds. We really don’t want to see this species becoming established in Guernsey as it spreads alarmingly easily and will become a significant problem for our natural spaces and for landowners.  

“We would encourage anyone who believes they have found Himalayan balsam to contact us as soon as possible.”