Winter Honeysuckle
lonicera fragrantissima
Also known as: ["Winter Honeysuckle","Fragrant Honeysuckle"]
Overview
A deciduous or semi-evergreen shrub known for its fragrant white or pale pink flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Lonicera |
| Botanical Name: | Lonicera fragrantissima |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid intense midday sun; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; tolerates temperatures from -20°F to 80°F; prefers cool winters for dormancy.
Protect from frost; ensure winter chill; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly after pruning; avoid nitrogen-heavy formulas; stop feeding in winter.
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 rooting 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%); warm temperatures (65–75°F); indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the plant; heading back to control size.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape; remove dead or crossing branches; encourage air circulation and flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before flowering; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain; water early in the morning 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; mulch with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; delayed flowering in insufficient cold exposure; stunted growth in overly warm winters.
Cold Stress
Leaves may drop or turn yellow; buds may abort; growth may slow or cease in prolonged cold.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from harsh winds; ensure good air circulation to prevent frost damage.
Hot Stress
Wilting; leaf drop; reduced flowering; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; apply during active growth.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing; reduce feeding in late summer/autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest the berries. The toxicity is generally low, but caution is advised due to the potential for more sensitive reactions in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of the berries may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds are not highly potent, but can cause discomfort if consumed in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Lonicera fragrantissima contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to temporary discomfort without severe systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does Lonicera fragrantissima bloom?
A: It blooms in late winter to early spring, typically from January to March.
Q: Is Winter Honeysuckle toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How much sunlight does this plant require?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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