Category Archives: Caprifoliaceae

Leycesteria formosa, Himalayan honeysuckle

Family: Caprifoliaceae

Description:

This shrub is known for striking floral display in summer followed by attractive fruits in fall. This long blooming species has white flowers descending from showy red bracts. Fruit emerge as pink and transition to dark purple. Stems are vigorous, but take two years for wood to ripen to produce fruits. Any stem older than three years begin to deteriorate.

Growing conditions:

Leycesteria Formosa grows well in the Vancouver region. It is best in full-sun or part-shade in moist soil.

Suitable uses:

This species is valuable for both ornamental appeal as well as wildlife attraction. Leycesteria formosa is frequented by hummingbirds and butterflies when flowers are present as well as birds when fruit emerges. To truly highlight this attractive shrub, a knowledgeable grounds-person is needed for correctly pruning.

CC Image courtesy of Wendy Cutler on Flickr

CC Image courtesty of Avi on Flickr

Cephalaria gigantea,giant scabious

Family: Caprifoliacaea

Description:

Uncharacteristic from others in the caprifoliaceae family, this species has tall, upright stems with flower heads sporting multiple rings of irregularly shaped petals. Flowers are creamy yellow and attract a variety of pollinators over a long flowering period. The form is both airy and wild, with a tendency to flop over. Dark green basal leaves are compound.

Growing conditions:

Cephalaria gigantea grows best in rich, moist, well-drained soil and in open, sunny locations. Less sun may result in a floppier form that needs staking.

Suitable uses:

With a more irregular form, this species is suited for a more informal setting to provide a wild look.  It is also a valuable addition for pollinators.

CC Image courtesy of sharon_k on Flickr

CC Image courtesy of  muffinn on Flickr