What are the Himalayan balsam's adaptations?

Answer 1

Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) has spread extensively along riverbanks, damp ditches and waste land. It is classed as a troublesome weed as it grows abundantly and smothers other native plants. The ripe seeds will explode and scatter when brushed against by animal or a person walking past. The Himalayan balsam is a relative of the busy Lizzie, though a lot taller.

Answer 2

Moisture-tolerant roots, photosynthesis-supportive leaves, pollinator-friendly flowers, reproduction-facilitative stems and wind-cooperative seeds describe the adaptations of Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera). Resource-grabbing, shallow, weak roots dominate waterways by growing hollow, jointed, tall stems and lance-shaped leaves for re-rooting and shading out competitors and by tolerating water-logging. Lilac, pink, purple, yellow or white flowers shaped like policemen's helmets hold copious, nutritious nectar for pollinating bumblebees and tend to compete aggressively with area vegetation for all pollinators and segue into 2,500 buoyant seeds that land 6.21 miles (10 kilometers) away.