Policeman’s Helmet

An interesting find today. I went to the viaduct walk with my two pooches and just as we were leaving the paddling area by the small waterfall, I spotted this. Himalayan Balsam (Impatiens glandulifera). 

A relative of the Busy Lizzie and especially likes riverbanks, but is apparently very invasive and as it spreads quickly smothers other vegetation.

So maybe not such a nice chap then. Also known as jumping jack, Indian balsam and as per the title of the blip, policeman’s helmet.

Thank you to Miranda for hosting WFW. I think I also saw some meadowsweet, but they were actually in the process of cutting the path through the grass to the viaduct when I passed by first time.