Dwarf Honeysuckle

lonicera xylosteum

Also known as: ["European fly honeysuckle","dogberry"]

Family: Caprifoliaceae Genus: Lonicera Category: Shrubs

Overview

A deciduous shrub native to Europe and parts of Asia, known for its small yellow flowers and red berries.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Dipsacales
Family: Caprifoliaceae
Genus: Lonicera
Botanical Name: Lonicera xylosteum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: mixed borders, hedges, or woodland edges
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–25–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with amendments.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day preferred, though adaptable to partial shade.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching; provide afternoon shade in hot climates; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil drainage or nutrient imbalance.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Monitor leaf color for signs of stress; rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during growing season, less frequently in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-drained, moderately fertile soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure soil is not compacted; test pH periodically; amend with organic matter annually.

Temperature

Hardy in USDA zones 4–7; tolerates cold winters; prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F) during active growth.

Protect from frost; avoid placing near heat sources; adjust watering for temperature extremes.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize only during active growth; dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength; stop fertilizing in winter.

Propagation

Methods

Softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer; layering can also be successful.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Peat and perlite mix or sandy loam with good drainage.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Thinning cuts to open the plant; heading back to control size; selective removal of weak or crossing branches.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased wood.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood first; shape evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water 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 away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; incorporate sand or perlite for drainage.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; wilting in sudden temperature shifts.

Cold Stress

Leaves may curl or drop; growth slows or halts; potential dieback in severe cold without protection.

Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from harsh winds; cover with frost cloth during extreme cold snaps.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may enter dormancy in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; improve air circulation around the plant.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; apply at correct dilution; fertilize during growing season only.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, especially in late summer or fall.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Lonicera xylosteum can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as aphids or spider mites, which disrupt chlorophyll production.

Wilting in Lonicera xylosteum is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root issues like root rot, which impairs water uptake and transport within the plant.

Leaf spots on Lonicera xylosteum may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthesis, premature leaf drop, and weakened plant vigor.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can affect Lonicera xylosteum when soil conditions are excessively wet, leading to decay of plant tissues and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Lonicera xylosteum is toxic to cats, with the berries and seeds posing the greatest risk. The plant's toxic compounds can induce cyanide poisoning, leading to severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects in felines.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy difficulty breathing tremors seizures weakness
🌿 Toxic Parts:
berries seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary care without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

The berries and seeds of Lonicera xylosteum are toxic to dogs, containing compounds that can lead to cyanide poisoning. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms, requiring prompt veterinary intervention.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite difficulty breathing tremors seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
berries seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Lonicera xylosteum, commonly known as dwarf honeysuckle, contains toxic compounds, primarily amygdalin, which can release cyanide upon ingestion. The berries and seeds are particularly hazardous, causing significant physiological distress when consumed in sufficient quantities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain dizziness difficulty breathing seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
berries seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any parts of the plant. Keep out of reach of children and pets. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek immediate medical attention.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Lonicera xylosteum toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Q: Is this plant suitable for beginners?

A: No, it requires moderate care and is better suited for enthusiasts.

Quick Reference
Family: Caprifoliaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during growi
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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