Leycesteria formosa
|
Pheasant Berry
|
Type/Hardiness |
Perennial, Shrub, Hardy |
Flowering period |
Summer-Autumn |
Height |
6ft/2m |
Light preference |
Sun |
Soil preference |
Any reasonable soil |
Sowing time/depth |
, Barely cover |
|
The stems of this most unusual-looking plant resemble bamboo and are a feature in the winter garden. However, they should be cut back hard in spring to encourage new, bushy growth. The flowers are small, appearing as nodding bunches surrounded by dark-maroon bracts, followed by reddish-brown berries which are not considered to be edible. |
Sowing and/or growing instructions |
Sow in winter, in a cold frame or unheated greenhouse, covering thinly with compost or vermiculite. Transfer seedlings individually to 3in pots and grow on, planting out when large enough. |