Pest Photo

Barbara Tokarska-Guzik, University of Silesia, Bugwood.org

Policeman's helmet

Impatiens glandulifera

Policeman's helmet (Impatiens glandulifera) is an invasive plant. It is a native of India and the western Himalaya and was first detected in Washington in 2002.

Ornamental jewelweed is now naturalized in 31 countries. It is widespread in Europe, North America and Asia. The aggressive seed dispersal, coupled with high nectar production which attracts pollinaters, often allows the plant to outcompete native plants. It negatively impacts habitat for wildlife species.

For more information about this plant pest, see the CABI data sheet.