American Fly Honeysuckle
lonicera canadensis
Also known as: ["Swamp Fly Honeysuckle","Early Fly Honeysuckle"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to eastern North America, known for its paired, tubular flowers and small, red berries.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Lonicera |
| Botanical Name: | Lonicera canadensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: woodland edges, understory plantings, or partially shaded garden beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"-40–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter.
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 (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates more shade but may flower less.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to diffuse intense light; monitor for leaf burn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, less in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend with organic matter for fertility; check pH annually.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–7. Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F). Tolerates cold winters but needs protection from extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from late frosts; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm roots; water after application.
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%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F).
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain humidity with a plastic dome; check for roots after 3 weeks.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of crowded branches; heading back to control size.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged wood first; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.
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 crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues. Allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or aged manure to enhance fertility; mix perlite or sand for drainage; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; dieback or delayed bud break in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause dieback of tender growth and delay flowering. Prolonged freezing may damage buds.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in fall; protect from harsh winds; avoid planting in frost pockets.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering. Stress may cause premature leaf drop.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering during heatwaves; use reflective mulch to keep roots cool.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water after fertilizing; avoid contact with stems.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply lightly around the root zone, avoiding direct contact with stems.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Lonicera canadensis may cause mild gastrointestinal issues in cats upon ingestion. The toxic effects are generally limited to digestive disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Lonicera canadensis can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. The toxic compounds primarily affect the digestive system, leading to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Lonicera canadensis contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and discomfort when ingested in small quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to mild irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lonicera canadensis toxic to pets?
A: 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 growi |
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