Just a girl with a hammer

Leycesteria formosa, my favorite plant in the garden this week

You can probably guess why. Oh, those pagodas of fruit!

I got this Himalayan honeysuckle from Ricki at a plant exchange. I’ve come to realize that if Ricki tells you you need a plant, you listen.

The foliage has a nice color with branches that arch and layer pleasingly.

The flowers are fairly unremarkable and I detect no fragrance on mine, though others report it has one. Reports also vary on its hardiness: Davesgarden reports 4a-9b while Annie’s Annuals says 9-11. Has anyone below 8b grown this one? Where it doesn’t die back to the ground in winter it can be cut back hard in the spring to keep its size in check. Mature size sounds to be 6-8′ tall and wide.

Reports also vary about where it should be sited. Mine is in part sun and gets regular water. It seems content so far. I’m so glad I found a spot for it.

My favorite plant in the garden this week is hosted by Loree at Danger Garden. Be sure to check out what she’s liking this week!

Comments

  1. Alison Avatar
    Alison

    I have one too, but its drupes never look anywhere near as good as the ones I've seen in other gardens. It's in part sun but doesn't get watered regularly. Maybe that's the problem. Such a great plant! It grows here in Zone 7b/8a.

    Reply
  2. Heather Avatar
    Heather

    I had no idea you were in such a cooler zone than us! I'm even more excited for your tropical garden now.

    Reply
  3. linda Avatar
    linda

    Mine died in the BIG CHILL! perhaps I need to try again ?

    Reply
  4. Heather Avatar
    Heather

    Oh no! So definitely not hardy down to 4a. Apparently they are very easy to propagate, so you could get your wish!

    Reply
  5. Jenni @ RainyDayGardener Avatar
    Jenni @ RainyDayGardener

    Yours looks to have excellent form. Nicely done! I think the blooms are sweet too. I bet your bee's have been happy to have it in your garden 🙂

    Reply
  6. Loree Avatar
    Loree

    Oh yes that first image says it all!

    Reply
  7. Ricki Grady Avatar
    Ricki Grady

    The fruits are edible, but I am satisfied just looking at them…and then having plenty of babies to let out for adoption. Glad you are happy with yours.

    Reply
  8. Kris Peterson Avatar
    Kris Peterson

    What I'd like to know is how you folks up in the PNW get hold of such beautiful plants, suited to my zone, that I never see offered locally?! I'm thinking conspiracy…

    Reply
  9. Heather Avatar
    Heather

    We are spoiled in Portland–we have so many good nurseries that are stocked with awesome, unusual stuff.

    Reply
  10. Heather Avatar
    Heather

    I have enough trouble picking my tomatoes–let the birds have them. 🙂

    Reply
  11. Peter Herpst Avatar
    Peter Herpst

    It's evergreen for me here in zone 8a and always looks lovely! You've chosen a great favorite!

    Reply
  12. Jason Avatar
    Jason

    Nice plant! The fruits are very cool.

    Reply

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