Himalayan Honeysuckle (Leycesteria Formosa)
About Himalayan Honeysuckle (Leycesteria Formosa)
Himalayan honeysuckle is a popular garden species, but in many areas, it has been caused to spread into the ‘wild’. It is an invasive non-native species (INNS) in the UK, meaning that it outcompetes and displaces native vegetation, which is valuable for native UK wildlife. Himalayan honeysuckle can be observed along some routes of the Great Glamorgan Way, in South-Central Wales. Himalayan honeysuckle can be found in areas of scrub and shaded forest. The stems are green/red, resembling Japanese knotweed. The dark red flowers hang downwards with white flowers at the base, resembling an upside-down cone.
The Problem
- Himalayan honeysuckle is considered less of an issue than other invasives such as Himalayan balsam, as they do not spread as quickly.
- The plant itself outcomes and crowds out native plant species.
- The flowers are particularly attractive to bees, causing them to pollinate the invasive species over native UK species.
- The berries are attractive to birds, causing them to spread the seeds of the plant over long distances via their faeces.
The solution
- Where Himalayan Honeysuckle has spread into ‘the wild’ it is recommended that it is removed.
- The plant can be dug out at any time of the year.
- Alternatively cut down and paint the stump to inhibit new growth.
Great Glamorgan Way Project