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Shrub balsam

Botanical Name Impatiens sodenii
Family Balsaminaceae
Origin East Africa

Identification

The balsam of most concern is the shrub balsam. Stems hairless, green and more or less succulent above, leaves in whorls. 2 m high, bushy. Pale pink flowers all year round.

Habitats

Coastal areas, cities and towns. Garden escape and is the most commonly cultivated balsam in NZ.

Dispersal Routes, Vectors, Infestation Sources

Commonly grown as a pot plant or outdoor garden plant. Grows freely from cuttings. Seeds dispersed from explosive capsules.

Management

Management

Physical Control

Dig plants out.

Disposal

Grows very readily from cuttings so must be disposed of effectively. Thoroughly compost or dispose of at a landfill.

Chemical Control

Spray with Metsulfuron or Glyphosate.

Mix Metsulfuron at 5 g to 10 litres of water plus Penetrant

Mix Glyphosate at 100 ml to 10 litres of water

Biological Control

 

Recommended Approach

Dig out small infestations. Spray larger areas.