Leycesteria Formosa Purple Rain - Himalayan Honeysuckle, Plant in 10.5 cm Pot

Leycesteria are native to the Himalayas and were originally introduced into the Uk around 1880. This is one of the few large shrubs that flowers in autumn when few other shrubs are in flower. A hardy, medium to large deciduous shrub with attractive foliage on sturdy, hollow stems. Flowers are white with large, striking claret red bracts in drooping terminal racemes. If that were not enough, the flowers are replaced by big glossy reddish purple berries that are very attractive to Pheasants and other birds! A striking plant that will attain its best when given plenty of room. The variety Purple Rain is a significant improvement on the original species with a greater abundance of larger flowers. Easy to grow on most fertile, moist soils in a full sun or light shade location. Drought and seaside tolerant. In winter in harsh winters it is advisable to apply a thick layer of mulch to the base of the plant. Can be used in a mixed planting or as a stand alone specimen in the garden or can easily be grown in a pot or container. When growing in a pot or other container. Use a good quality compost. Ensure you feed regularly as a hungry plant is a poor performer. We recommend Osmoscote pro 8-9 month applied in the early spring. One application gives all the nutrients the plant requires for the whole year.