Trumpet Honeysuckle
Lonicera sempervirens
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Angiosperm
Class: Dicot
Order: Dipsacales
Family: Caprifoliaceae
Genus: Lonicera
Species: sempervirens
Where in the OLL?
Flowers attract several types of hummingbird and insect pollinators.
Berries attract several types of birds.
Flowers add beauty to the garden.
Plant growth form
Vine.
Above ground woody perennial.
Can grow 8 to 20 feet tall, width between 3 and 6 feet.
Flowers, fruits & pollinators
2 inch flowers in whorled (circular) clusters.
Exterior of flowers can be found in shades of orange, red and occasionally yellow, interior of flower is yellow.
Flowers in mid Spring and occasionally throughout the summer.
Perfect floral arrangement (has both “male” and “female” reproduction parts).
long and tubular.
1 pistil, 5 stamens, 5 fused petals, and no sepals
Ideal location, conditions & cultural needs
Will grow in light shade, but does better in sun.
Plant likes medium moisture and well drained soils.
Minimum ph is 6.0 and maximum is 8.5.
No special nutrient needs.
Planning & maintenance
Needs something to climb on unless you allow it to spread on the ground, where it can grow 3 to 6 feet.
It requires pruning right after flowering.
Cultivars & propagation
‘Alabama Crimson’ is a common variety that has red blooms throughout the season, while the ‘John Clayton’ sports yellow flowers. Both are good for gardens.
This plant can be propagated by seed or cuttings.
Pests & pathogens
No major pests or diseases.
Can occasionally be inflicted with powdery mildew, which can be treated with a solution of neem oil and water. https://www.hunker.com/13426462/how-to-treat-powdery-mildew-on-honeysuckle
Aphids can also be a problem; it is suggested you try to hose them off or allow ladybugs to eat them.
Landscape & ecosystem
Beautiful flowers that come in a variety of colors.
Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and other birds and insects that use it as a source of food.
Human uses
Native Americans steeped the leaves in water to make tea, which could be used to deal with asthma, and sore throats.
Chewed leaves could be made into poultices for bee stings.
Berries cause vomiting if eaten.