Alpine Honeysuckle
lonicera alpigena
Also known as: ["Mountain Honeysuckle","Redfly Honeysuckle"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to mountainous regions of Europe, known for its attractive red berries and fragrant flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Lonicera |
| Botanical Name: | Lonicera alpigena |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: mixed border or woodland edge
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged soil.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates slightly alkaline conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done in late winter if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if rejuvenation is required.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates dappled light in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure good aeration; avoid compacted soil; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–7; prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F); tolerates cold winters.
Protect from late frost; water deeply before cold snaps; avoid sudden temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; apply before new growth emerges; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F).
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot or ground within a growing season.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, misting spray bottle, propagation tray.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the plant; heading back to control size; deadheading spent flowers.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, remove dead wood, and encourage flowering; prune after blooming to avoid cutting off buds.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, loppers for thicker stems, pruning saw for large branches.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or crossing branches; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for young plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; topdress with organic mulch.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; stunted growth or dieback in prolonged cold without protection.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt or turn yellow; growth slows; vulnerable to frost damage in early spring.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with burlap in extreme cold; avoid planting in frost pockets.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf drop, or scorched foliage; reduced flowering in intense heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use reflective mulch to reduce ground heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing; reduce feeding in late summer.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume the berries of Lonicera alpigena. The toxicity is generally low, but ingestion should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Lonicera alpigena can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. While not highly toxic, ingestion may lead to discomfort and mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicLonicera alpigena, commonly known as Alpine Honeysuckle, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested. The berries are the primary toxic parts, though the effects are generally not severe.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lonicera alpigena toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: What are the common problems with this plant?
A: Common issues include leaf spots and wilting.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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