Acidic / Chalky / Alkaline / Clay / Heavy / Moist / Well Drained / Light / Sandy
Honeysuckle (Lonicera periclymenum) is a native shrubby climber, bearing fragrant, tubular white and pink flowers, which mature to yellow, from July to September. It will quickly cover a wall or fence, and is a magnet for garden wildlife. It makes a fabulous planting companion for roses.
While not as strongly scented as Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), Lonicera periclumenum has a strong fragrance, which is more noticeable in the evening, as it has evolved to attract night-flying moths as pollinators. However, being native, English honeysuckle is far less rampant than Japanese honeysuckle, which can be invasive.
Bear in mind that Lonicera periclymenum is very mildly toxic. If ingested, its berries could cause a mild upset stomach to people and pets.
How to grow Lonicera periclymenum
Grow Lonicera periclymenum in moist but well-drained soil, digging a hole and planting at the same depth it was in the pot you bought it in. Honeysuckle can be prone to mildew – to prevent this, plant in dappled shade or so the roots are kept in the shade but the foliage can grow into the sun. Water well after planting and then for a couple of weeks until it becomes established, and then only during dry periods.
Prune Lonicera periclymenum after flowering, cutting back by up to a third, to maintain a good shape.
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Advice on buying Lonicera periclymenum 'Dark Green'
Lonicera periclymenum should be available from your local garden centre or nursery, but you will have more options online
Always check plants for signs of damage or disease before planting
Lonicera is known for attracting bees, beneficial insects, birds, butterflies/moths and other pollinators. It is a caterpillar food plant, has nectar/pollen rich flowers, provides shelter and habitat, has seeds for birds and makes a good wildlife hedge.
Is known to attract Bees
Bees
Is known to attract Beneficial insects
Beneficial insects
Is known to attract Birds
Birds
Is known to attract Butterflies/Moths
Butterflies/Moths
Is known to attract Other pollinators
Other pollinators
Is Lonicera poisonous?
Lonicera irritates skin. Its foliage and fruit are toxic.
