Leycesteria formosa aka Pheasant Berry

Leycesteria formosa is a deciduous shrub in the honeysuckle family. Its common names include Himalayan honeysuckle and pheasantberry. Its native range runs from northeastern Pakistan to south-central China and northern Myanmar. It grows in scrub and shaded woods, often near streams. Garden plants form upright clumps with many stems from the base. They grow fast and lose their leaves in winter.

Sources give different sizes for this shrub in gardens. Missouri Botanical Garden lists heights of 3–6 feet [0.9–1.8 metres]. RHS gives both height and spread as 5–8 feet [1.5–2.5 metres]. Missouri Botanical Garden lists a spread of about 5 feet [1.5 metres]. The hollow stems may look green, grey, or purple. The dark green leaves grow in opposite pairs. Each has a pointed tip and a heart-shaped base. Their undersides look paler and may bear fine hairs.

Small flowers hang in clusters from June to September. White petals sit within deep red or purple bracts. The flowers have a mild scent, and the bracts add colour. Glossy berries follow, changing from green through maroon to purple-black. One cluster may hold fruit at several stages of ripeness. Flowers and fruit give the shrub a long season of interest. It attracts birds and hummingbirds. Gardeners use it alone or in small woodland groups. It also suits cottage gardens and coastal sites. The hollow stems can serve as whistles or flutes.

Grow it in sun or partial shade with well-drained soil. It accepts chalk, clay, loam, and sand across a broad pH range. It prefers moist soil and needs regular water. RHS also records drought resistance. Afternoon shade helps in places with hot summers. Sources list USDA zones 7–9 and UK hardiness H5. Cold below 15°F may kill stems down to the ground. Mulch helps protect roots near the colder edge of its range. Protected roots can send up fast-growing stems in spring. Hard pruning in late winter or early spring renews growth.

Serious pest and disease problems are uncommon, though honey fungus can occur. Missouri Botanical Garden also lists resistance to deer. Oregon State warns of invasiveness in Australia and weed status in New Zealand. Sources disagree about fruit safety. Missouri Botanical Garden calls the berries edible. PFAF describes sweet ripe fruit in some forms, but bitter fruit in others. RHS warns that people and pets should not eat the fruit. These reports do not establish that the berries are safe. PFAF lists no known medicinal use.