Honeysuckle

lonicera periclymenum

Also known as: ["European honeysuckle","woodbine"]

Family: Caprifoliaceae Genus: Lonicera Category: Flowers

Overview

A deciduous or semi-evergreen twining climber with fragrant, tubular flowers that attract pollinators, typically blooming in summer and early autumn.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: trellis, fence, or wall support in a sheltered spot
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
  • Soil Type: Rich, well-draining loam with organic matter; tolerates average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning after flowering if needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth for rejuvenation.
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 plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering or poor drainage); stunted growth (nutrient deficiency or compacted soil).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

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, fertile, humus-rich soil

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

Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.

Temperature

Hardy in USDA zones 4–9; tolerates temperatures from -20°F to 90°F; prefers moderate temperatures for optimal growth.

Protect from frost; water deeply in heat; adjust care based on seasonal extremes.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize lightly after pruning; avoid fertilizing stressed plants; water before and after feeding.

Propagation

Methods

Softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer; layering is also effective.

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-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot or ground within a growing season.

Tools Needed

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

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic cover.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

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

Pruning Plan

Prune to shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or weak growth; focus on older stems for renewal.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune before active growth; remove dead/diseased wood; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or dormancy.

Pot Size

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

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage in new pot.

Suggestions

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

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.

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 in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a soaker hose to deliver water directly to the roots, minimizing waste.
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 to retain moisture.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold; stunted growth in temperature extremes.

Cold Stress

Leaves may wilt or turn brown; growth slows; buds may fail to open in freezing conditions.

Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with burlap in severe cold; avoid overwatering in winter.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop; reduced flowering; increased susceptibility to pests.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Choose balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water before and after; avoid late-season feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer/autumn.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Lonicera periclymenum can indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen or iron, water stress, or pest infestations like spider mites or aphids. It may also result from environmental stressors like excessive sunlight or poor soil drainage.

Wilting in Lonicera periclymenum is typically caused by water stress, either due to under-watering or over-watering leading to root rot. It can also be a symptom of pest infestations or diseases affecting the vascular system.

Leaf spots on Lonicera periclymenum are commonly caused by fungal pathogens like Cercospora or Phoma, leading to defoliation and reduced photosynthesis. These spots may appear as necrotic areas with distinct margins.

Rotting in Lonicera periclymenum is often associated with root or stem rot, primarily caused by over-watering or poorly drained soil, leading to fungal infections such as Phytophthora or Pythium. This can result in plant decline and death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

The berries of Lonicera periclymenum can cause mild gastrointestinal distress in cats if ingested. The saponins may lead to mild irritation of the digestive tract.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep the plant out of reach of cats. If ingestion occurs, consult a veterinarian.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

The berries of Lonicera periclymenum can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. The saponins present may lead to mild irritation of the digestive system.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep the plant out of reach of dogs. If ingestion occurs, consult a veterinarian.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

The berries of Lonicera periclymenum contain saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in large quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to mild irritation of the digestive tract.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consuming the berries. Keep away from children and pets.
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 honeysuckle toxic to pets?

A: Honeysuckle is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: How do I prune honeysuckle?

A: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, cutting back overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth.

Q: Does honeysuckle attract wildlife?

A: Yes, its fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds, making it a valuable addition to wildlife gardens.

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