Trumpet Honeysuckle
lonicera sempervirens
Also known as: ["Coral Honeysuckle","Evergreen Honeysuckle"]
Overview
A deciduous or semi-evergreen vine known for its tubular, coral-red flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Lonicera |
| Botanical Name: | Lonicera sempervirens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis, fence, or wall support in garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–38°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter. Can tolerate poor soils but thrives with added compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and vigor.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates some shade but blooms best with more sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to intense sunlight if moving from shade. Avoid placing in hot, reflective surfaces that can scorch leaves. Outdoor placement is ideal, but ensure protection from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate the plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; provide shade during extreme heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend heavy clay soils with organic matter; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–9. Prefers temperatures between 60–80°F (15–27°C). Tolerates mild frosts but may struggle in extreme heat or prolonged cold.
Protect from frost in early spring and late fall; avoid placing near heat sources indoors; maintain moderate humidity in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm roots; fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; use a fertilizer with higher phosphorus content to encourage blooms.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood stem cuttings in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is flexible but mature enough to root.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F, 18–24°C).
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pots after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide gentle bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of older or overgrown stems; thin out crowded areas; shape as needed.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems. Pruning also improves air circulation and flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for thicker stems), gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before flowering for more blooms; remove dead or diseased wood; avoid over-pruning young plants.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose a new pot with drainage holes; prepare fresh soil mix; water plant a day before repotting; acclimate to new pot gradually.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone. Apply until water begins to drain from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during the growing season, reducing frequency in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; wilting or browning in cold stress; reduced flowering in suboptimal temperatures.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth, cause leaf drop, or damage tender stems. Prolonged freezing may harm roots or buds.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base to insulate roots; move potted plants to a sheltered location; cover outdoor plants during hard freezes.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering. Plants may become stressed and vulnerable to pests.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose a balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; follow dilution instructions; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season, reducing or stopping in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Lonicera sempervirens may cause mild gastrointestinal issues in cats if consumed. The toxicity is generally low, but ingestion should still be avoided to prevent discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Lonicera sempervirens can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. The compounds present are not highly toxic but can lead to discomfort and mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Lonicera sempervirens contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and discomfort when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive system, with no severe systemic effects typically observed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Trumpet Honeysuckle require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Q: Is Trumpet Honeysuckle invasive?
A: No, it is not considered invasive and is well-behaved in gardens.
Q: How do I prune Trumpet Honeysuckle?
A: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or weak stems and encourage vigorous growth.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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