This plant sprouts up every year - we think it propagates from seed - fairly invasive. Seen growing in Alberta - mostly around Wetaskiwin and Edmonton area but could be in other areas of Alberta, and elsewhere. Appears to prefer good soil and partial shade, and have seen them growing wild in amongst trees. Depending on soil and light conditions they appear to grow anywhere from 3 - 4 feet in height. The stalk is hollow.
This looks like Impatiens glandulifera -- you're right, it is invasive, a tall impatiens sometimes called Himalayan balsam. The things produce a ton of seeds, and the seed capsules explode with the slightest touch when ripe.
Thank you so much for your answer!!!! It was starting to drive me simple in not being able to identify it - I never would have thought to look under the Impatiens family. I googled it and it is also called Indian-Touch-Me-Not :-). Thanks again
