Leycesteria formosa 'Little Lanterns'

New to us, this is a compact deciduous shrub with handsome golden green leaves and pendulous clusters of pretty white flowers in summer. These flowers are followed by dark purplish-black berries in autumn, popular with wildlife in particular pheasants.

Most suitable for a position in sun or dappled shade..

• Position: Full sun or light, dappled shade.
• Soil: Well drained, fertile soil.Dislikes very wet soils with frequent standing water.
• Hardiness: Reasonably hardy. Can suffer from some die-back after severe cold weather, usually recovers well the following Spring.
• Flowering Period: June - September.
• Flower Colour:Claret red and white.
• Rate of Growth: Moderate.
• Habit: Medium sized, branching shrub with arching stems if left unpruned. Can be pruned
  • Height: up to 1 - 1.2 m (3 - 4 ft) once mature.
  • Spread: 1.2 m (4ft).

• Notes: Leycesteria formosa 'Little Lanterns' can be pruned hard in early spring to reduce the end size and encourage new growth. It will have a better shape if sheltered from strong winds.