Overview
Leycesteria formosa 'Golden Lanterns' is a bushy deciduous shrub in the genus Leycesteria, part of the Caprifoliaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 2.5 m tall. Leycesteria formosa 'Golden Lanterns' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include coastal, cottage and informal garden and wall side borders. It is native to Himalayas and southwestern China.
About
Leycesteria formosa, the pheasant berry, is a deciduous shrub in the family Caprifoliaceae, native to the Himalayas and southwestern China. It is considered a noxious invasive species in Australia, New Zealand, the neighbouring islands of Micronesia, and some other places.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Leycesteria formosa
About the genus
Leycesteria is a genus of flowering plants in the honeysuckle family Caprifoliaceae. It includes seven species native to the Himalayas of northern Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet, and to Myanmar and southwestern China.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Leycesteria
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing, West-facing, South-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H2
Plant details
Leycesteria formosa 'Golden Lanterns' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- deciduous shrub
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 2.5 m
- Suggested uses
- Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wall side borders
- Native to
- Himalayas, southwestern China
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Leycesteria formosa 'Golden Lanterns'
- Propagation
- Seed, Softwood cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Leycesteria formosa 'Golden Lanterns'?
Leycesteria formosa 'Golden Lanterns' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Leycesteria formosa 'Golden Lanterns' need?
Leycesteria formosa 'Golden Lanterns' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How big does Leycesteria formosa 'Golden Lanterns' grow?
Leycesteria formosa 'Golden Lanterns' reaches a height of 2.5 m.
Is Leycesteria formosa 'Golden Lanterns' hardy in the UK?
Leycesteria formosa 'Golden Lanterns' has an RHS hardiness rating of H2, meaning it is tender, tolerating 1–5°C, and needs frost-free protection over winter.
How do I propagate Leycesteria formosa 'Golden Lanterns'?
Seed, Softwood cuttings.