About
A dense, evergreen shrub, maturing to 3.5m tall and 3m wide, with small, ovate, glossy dark-green leaves on arching branches. Tiny cream flowers in spring are followed, in autumn, by sparse, glossy, blue-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
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesGravel garden, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
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 well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. See honeysuckle (shrubby) cultivation
PruningIf grown as hedging or for topiary, clip any time from spring to autumn; otherwise Pruning 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)