Himalayan Honeysuckle

Leycesteria formosa

Physical Characteristics

Leycesteria formosa is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2.5 m (8ft) by 2.5 m (8ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from June to September, and the seeds ripen from October to November. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure. It can tolerate atmospheric pollution.

Distribution

E. Asia - China to the Himalayas. An occasional garden escape in Britain.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit? - one unconfirmed report said that the fruit is edible. In the better forms, the fully ripe and very soft fruit is very sweet with a treacle-like flavour, though in other forms it has a very bitter taste and is not very desirable[K].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known