Leycesteria formosa Golden Lanterns ('Notbruce'PBR)

RHS Plant Profile
Himalayan honeysuckle [Golden Lanterns]

Synonyms

Leycesteria formosa 'Notbruce'PBR
Leycesteria formosa 'Golden Lanterns'

Award of Garden Merit
Shrubs

A vigorous, upright, clump-forming shrub with hollow stems. Emerging growth is orange paling to bright golden yellow foliage all season and in sun. Inflorescences are pendulous with dark bracts and white tubular flowers protuding in summer followed by dark purplish black fragrant berries attractive to birds.

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1.5-2.5 metres

Max Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Max Height
1.5-2.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or South–facing or East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Caprifoliaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy, Clump forming, Columnar upright
Potentially harmful
Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus
Leycesteria are deciduous shrubs with hollow stems, simple leaves and terminal and axillary racemes of tubular flowers, followed by fleshy berries
Name Status
Trade

How to Grow

Cultivation

Thrives in free-draining soil in sun or semi-shade in a sheltered location such as woodland. Heavy wet soils are to be avoided.

Propagation

Propagate by seed or softwood cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Pruning group 6 in early spring when stems can be cut to ground level or Pruning group 3 after flowering.

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)