About

A low spreading evergreen shrub with small, glossy, lance-shaped leaves and small tubular cream flowers in late spring, followed by purple berries.

About the genus

Lonicera can be deciduous and evergreen shrubs, or climbers with twining stems. The tubular or two-lipped flowers, often very fragrant, are followed by red or black berries

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Coastal, Gravel garden
Native toChina
ToxicityFruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers

Care notes

CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil in sun or part shade
PruningPruning group 2
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings from late spring to late summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to honeysuckle aphids, Thrips and glasshouse whitefly
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, fungal leaf spot, silver leaf and honey fungus (rarely)