Policeman's Helmet

Impatiens glandulifera

Description

An herbaceous annual that is succulent, smooth and hairless, and ranges from three to ten-feet tall. Stems are upright with a purplish tinge and are easily broken. The oblong to egg-shaped leaves are opposite or whorled and have serrated edges. Solitary flowers range from white to pink or purple in color, have five petals, 2 sepals, and five fused stamens; the overall flower shape resembles that of a British policeman's helmet.

Habitat

Lowland riparian areas, including moist forests, stream sides and roadside thickets

Distribution

Western Washington, lower Fraser Valley of British Columbia, western Oregon - Salmon River and Sandy River watersheds, the Five Rivers area in Lincoln County and Wolf Creek in western Lane County, small infestations in Clatsop County

Impacts

Excludes native forbs along water systems

Dispersal Methods

Waterways

Prevention

Isolated small populations can be dug up, but must be monitored the following year. Do not purchase this plant, which is frequently sold as an ornamental. Clean off vehicles, shoes, and animals that have been in infested areas to prevent spread.

Listings

ODA's B List

Factsheets

Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board Fact Sheet
King County Noxious Weed Control Program Fact Sheet

Photos

http://www.forestryimages.org/browse/subthumb.cfm?sub=12794&start=1

Distribution Map

Distribution in Oregon
Distribution in Washington
Distribution in Idaho

CWMA Warnings

North Coast

Mid-Coast

Mid-Willamette

Columbia Gorge