Leycesteria formosa
1st August 2009
It is a pretty shrub. but it years since I planted it anywhere deliberately.
Seeds almost as freely as Buddleia davidii and grows just as rapidly.
Fortunately it is very brittle at the root so it is easy to pull out.
16th September 2010
Every time I turn around I seem to find one that wasn't there last time I looked. I don't really mind.
It is harmless and has the occasional outstanding moment.
15th August 2014
17th August 2021
Leycesteria formosa is widespread in the Himalayas with a range that stretches from Bhutan through south western China to Nepal and Pakistan.
In the UK it makes a tolerant if short lived shrub. It is probably not hardy enough for continental Europe but seems to be establishing as a weed in Australia and New Zealand.
References:
International Dendrology Society, Trees and Shrubs Online, https://treesandshrubsonline.og