About
Lonicera nigra, the black-berried honeysuckle, is a deciduous shrub to 1.5 m with green leaves and paired, white-turning-pink, tubular flowers in early summer, followed by distinctive black berries. A rewarding and ornamental small honeysuckle for a sunny or partly shaded border.
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
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy, Spreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
Native toC & S Europe
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 full or partial sun. See honeysuckle (shrubby) cultivation for further advice
PruningPruning group 2
PropagationPropagate from hardwood cuttings, softwood cutttings or semi-ripe cutting at each time of year. Or propagate from seed (tree/shrub
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews