PL. —Lonicera periclymenumBotanical illustration — drop image
Lonicera periclymenum

Honeysuckle

SpringSummer
4a9bHardiness zone
Peak bloom windowZone 6b · frost-offset weeks
Winter
Not in bloom
Spring
Peak bloom
Summer
In bloom
Fall
Not in bloom
Peak bloom
In bloom
Background

Honeysuckle is grown for the scent as much as the flower — the tubular yellow-cream flowers are beautiful but the fragrance, especially in the evening, is extraordinary and carries in the garden. A mature vine in full sun will produce cutting material from late spring through midsummer. Woody vine — needs a trellis, fence, or tree to climb.

As cut material, the flowering tips work beautifully as fragrant filler and trailing element in summer arrangements. Cut before peak heat of the day and condition in water immediately. Prune after flowering to control size and encourage next year's blooms on the new growth.

Care guide
SunFull sun to partial shade; roots prefer shade, tops in sun
WaterRegular until established; drought tolerant thereafter
SoilRich, moist, well-draining; prefers woodland edge conditions
Spacing6–10 feet
Height15–20 feet (climber)
Zone4a – 9b
Frost hardy
Seasonal tasks
spring
cutCut fragrant flowering tips for arrangements; use as trailing filler element
watchWatch for aphids on new tips — knock off with water
summer
cutPrune back after main flowering to control size and encourage new growth
Common problems

Aphids

Symptoms

Clusters of small soft insects on new growth and flower buds.

Treatment

Knock off with a strong jet of water. Ladybirds and lacewings are natural predators. Insecticidal soap as last resort.

Powdery mildew

Symptoms

White or grey powdery coating on leaves — usually starting on older growth in humid conditions or when nights cool.

Treatment

Improve air circulation by thinning plants. Apply neem oil or potassium bicarbonate spray at first sign. Avoid overhead watering.