About
Inflorescences are pendulous with dark bracts and white tubular flowers protuding in summer followed by dark purplish black scented berries attractive to birds. A vigorous, upright, clump-forming shrub with hollow stems. Emerging growth is orange paling to bright golden yellow foliage all season and in sun.
About the genus
Leycesteria are deciduous shrubs with hollow stems, simple leaves and terminal and axillary racemes of tubular flowers, followed by fleshy berries
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy, Clump forming, Columnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
ToxicityFruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationThrives in free-draining soil in sun or semi-shade in a sheltered location such as woodland. Heavy wet soils are to be avoided.
PruningPruning group 6 in early spring when stems can be cut to ground level or Pruning group 3 after flowering.
PropagationPropagate by seed or softwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)