About
Lonicera maackii, the Amur honeysuckle, is a large, deciduous shrub or small tree to 5 m with paired, oval, tapered, dark-green leaves to 8 cm long. Perfumed, tubular, two-lipped, white flowers 2 cm long � ageing to yellow � are produced along the stems in early summer, followed by long-lasting, dark-red berries. An ornamental and fruiting honeysuckle for a sunny or partly shaded border. Note: potentially invasive in North America � check local guidance.
About the genus
Lonicera, the honeysuckles, are deciduous and evergreen shrubs and climbers with twining stems, simple leaves and tubular or two-lipped flowers that are often very fragrant, followed by red or black berries. Widely grown for hedging, wildlife gardens, and covering fences, walls and pergolas.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitBushy, Spreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height4-8 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden
FragranceFlower
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 shrubby honeysuckle in any well drained soil in full sun or partial shade. See honeysuckle (shrubby) cultivation
PruningPruning group 2. Can be wall trained against a fence or wall, see pruning group 13 for wall training
PropagationPropagate by seed as soon as ripe, semi-ripe cuttings in summer or hardwood cuttings in autumn
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)