Tartarian Honeysuckle
lonicera tatarica
Also known as: ["Tartarian Honeysuckle","Tatarian Honeysuckle"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to central Asia, known for its fragrant pink or white flowers and red berries.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Lonicera |
| Botanical Name: | Lonicera tatarica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: fence, trellis, or wall for climbing support
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–34–38°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done in late winter if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to shape and rejuvenate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for health.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates some shade but blooms best in full sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. For indoor placement, provide bright, indirect light or supplemental grow lights.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh afternoon sun; monitor for leaf burn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid waterlogged conditions; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–7. Prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C) during active growth.
Protect from late spring frosts; ensure good air circulation in hot weather; avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid excessive growth; stop feeding in late summer to prepare for dormancy; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in late spring or early 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 flexible and actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat and perlite mix or coarse sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pots after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, plastic wrap, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above outward-facing buds; thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or diseased wood. Best done after flowering to avoid cutting off next year's buds.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol), gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/diseased wood; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; replace with fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Young plants may need repotting annually.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; 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. 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 spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; wilting in sudden temperature shifts.
Cold Stress
Can tolerate temperatures down to -30°F (-34°C) but may experience dieback in prolonged cold without protection.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; provide burlap screens for wind protection in exposed areas.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering if water and shade are insufficient.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid over-fertilization; water before and after feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season, avoiding winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they ingest the berries of Lonicera tatarica. While not highly toxic, it is best to prevent ingestion to avoid discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Lonicera tatarica berries can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic to dogs, but ingestion should still be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicLonicera tatarica, commonly known as Tatarian honeysuckle, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The berries are the most toxic part of the plant, though the toxicity is generally not severe.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Tartarian Honeysuckle invasive?
A: Yes, it is considered invasive in many regions due to its aggressive growth and spread.
Q: Are the berries of Lonicera tatarica edible?
A: The berries are mildly toxic and should not be consumed by humans or pets.
Q: How often should Tartarian Honeysuckle be pruned?
A: Prune in late winter or early spring to control growth and encourage flowering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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