Lonicera syringantha

Lonicera syringantha (the lilac-flowered honeysuckle), in the family Caprifoliaceae, is a deciduous, rounded shrub with small, sea-green leaves borne in threes along the slender branches. From April it blooms prolifically for many weeks. The tubular rose-lilac flowers are very sweetly scented.

The shrub originates in parts of China and Tibet where it grows in scrub at 3,500m. It was introduced to Britain around 1890.

This mature specimen is 2m high with a spread of 2m. Growing alongside the little path leading from the Victorian Garden to Osborn’s Field, it is well positioned for its fragrance to be enjoyed over a long period.