Impatiens glandulifera - Himalayan Balsam

Commonly known as Himalayan Balsam, Impatiens glandulifera is a distinctive annual with reddish stems. This particular Balsam was one I found in Highfield park mid-winter. However, usually it would be found along river banks and on damp waste ground - perhaps explaining the state of the one if found. The annual is expected to blossom July – October. The flowers are 3-4cm tall, pinkish purple with a short curved spur; on stalks in clusters.