What is it

Discussion in 'Plants: Identification' started by Pete, Feb 25, 2004.

  1. Pete

    Pete Member

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    [​IMG]
    not a good picture sorry but does anyone know what this is please its driving me mad
     
  2. jimmyq

    jimmyq Well-Known Member 10 Years

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    Location:
    Metro Vancouver, BC, Canada.
    possibly Catalpa ?
     
  3. Douglas Justice

    Douglas Justice Well-Known Member UBC Botanical Garden Forums Administrator Forums Moderator VCBF Cherry Scout Maple Society 10 Years

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    Location:
    Vancouver, Canada
    Looks like Leycesteria formosa (Himalayan honeysuckle). The vigorous, arching growth and exotic pendulous flower clusters are a real show-stopper. This fascinating plant is borderline hardy in the Vancouver area (Zone 8). This is a good thing, as the plant is exceptionally weedy and tends to be ratty if not maintained appropriately (the occasional hard freeze basically cleans up the neighbourhood).

    Like a raspberry, two-year-old canes are the most productive. Flowers are produced on the terminals and laterals on two-year and older wood, but the older the shoots, the less attractive they are. This is a suckering plant, so cutting out older shoots (e.g., older than two years) to the ground in spring encourages the production of renewal shoots, which is also the most effective way to keep the plants under about 1.75m tall. Because of its elegant arching habit and propensity to produce strong growth, heading cuts (lopping off the terminals) results in a hideous tangle of right-angled branches. Indescriminate pruning (unfortunately, all too common) leads to a condition we professionals call "horribly ugly."
     

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