Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Caprifoliaceae

Genus:

Leycesteria

Species:

Leycesteria formosa

USDA Symbol:

LEFO2

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Shrub

Height:

250 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

jun,jul,aug,sep

Bloom Colors:

white, purple

Landscaping Shrub:

Yes

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, butterflies

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rich, well-drained loamy soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

native to forest understories, prefers organic matter

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 60–90 days

Germination Time:

30–90 days

Notes:

Seeds benefit from cold stratification for 2-3 months to break dormancy.