Bush Honeysuckle
lonicera pileata
Also known as: ["Prostrate Honeysuckle","Creeping Honeysuckle"]
Overview
A low-growing, evergreen shrub with small, ovate leaves and fragrant, tubular flowers, native to China.
Benefits & Perks
["deer resistant","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Lonicera |
| Botanical Name: | Lonicera pileata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: ground cover in garden beds or as a low hedge
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- 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; 6–8 hours of direct or bright indirect light per day.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–8; tolerates temperatures between -20°F and 80°F; prefers cooler conditions in winter.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; water before and after feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in summer; layering is also effective.
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 present.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%); indirect light; warm temperatures (65–75°F).
Medium
Peat and perlite mix or cactus mix with added sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent plants; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open up the plant; heading back to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.
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 roots if necessary; repot in fresh soil with good drainage; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; 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; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
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 organic matter; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause dieback in extreme cold; requires protection in zones below its hardiness range.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from harsh winds; use frost cloth in extreme cold.
Hot Stress
Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced flowering; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; apply at recommended rate; water thoroughly after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid fertilizing in late fall or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that consume the berries of Lonicera pileata may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms. The toxicity is generally low, but caution is advised due to the sensitivity of feline digestive systems.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of the berries of Lonicera pileata may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds are not highly potent, but ingestion in large amounts could cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Lonicera pileata contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to temporary discomfort and is not considered life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lonicera pileata invasive?
A: It is not considered invasive in most regions but can spread moderately in suitable conditions.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: It tolerates partial shade but thrives in full sun for best flowering.
Q: How fast does it grow?
A: It is a moderately fast-growing groundcover, spreading up to 1-2 feet per year.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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