Himalayan honeysuckle
| Botanical Name | Leycesteria formosa |
|---|---|
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
| Origin | Temperate Himalaya |
Identification
Shrub to 2-3 m high, stem green, hollow. The red-purple bracts which surround the small flowers in the terminal inflorescence are a conspicuous distinguishing feature. Leaf ovate up to 240 mm long. Flowers occur Dec-May. Fruit black brownish purple, 7-10 mm diameter.Habitats
Streams, shrublands, light gaps in forests, potentially epiphytic niches, roadsides, exotic plantations, farm hedges and wastelands. Favours damper habitats.Impact to Biota and Ecosystems
Capable of penetrating deeply into untouched forest via natural light gaps. Favours windfall gaps and streamsides. Can form dense thickets especially in shrublands. Produces more shade than manuka but long term impact on forest regeneration is unknown.Dispersal Routes, Vectors, Infestation Sources
Main infestation sources are roadsides and exotic forests. From these sites the plant then spreads to wasteland and native forest. Abundant seed dispersed by birds.Management
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Management |
|
| Physical Control |
Dig out. |
| Disposal |
Leave to rot, mulch or compost. |
| Chemical Control |
Spray with Tricloypr(Grazon), Tordon 2G, Tordon Brushkiller, or Metsulfuron + Penetrant. (i) Tricloypr Rate - Knapsack 6 mls Tricloypr/litre water. (ii) Tordon 2G granules (Herbicide with long residual life in soil.) Rate - 55 grams Tordon 2G/m2 ground covered by drip line of plant. (iii) Gylphosate Rate - 10ml of Glyphosate in 10 litres of water. (iv) Metsulfuron + Penetrant Rate - Handgun 35 g Metsulfuron + 100 mls Penetrant/100 litres water Knapsack 5 g Metsulfuron + 10 mls Penetrant/10 litres water |
|
Biological Control |
|
| Recommended Approach |
Dig out scattered small plants. Otherwise spray. |