Overview

Lonicera x brownii 'Dropmore Scarlet' is a climbing climber wall shrub in the genus Lonicera, part of the Caprifoliaceae family, with semi evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 2.5-4 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 5-10 years. Lonicera x brownii 'Dropmore Scarlet' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, coastal, cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens and wall side borders.

About

Lonicera x brownii 'Dropmore Scarlet' is a climbing honeysuckle cultivar known for its semi-evergreen foliage. As a member of the Lonicera genus, which includes arching shrubs and twining vines native to northern latitudes, this cultivar grows to a height of 2.5 to 4 metres with a spread of 0.5 to 1 metre over 5 to 10 years. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and is adaptable to various soil types and pH levels, preferring moist but well-drained conditions. 'Dropmore Scarlet' is of interest through summer, autumn, and winter, making it a versatile choice for different garden aspects and exposures.

About the genus

Honeysuckles are arching shrubs or twining vines in the genus Lonicera of the family Caprifoliaceae. The genus includes 158 species native to northern latitudes in North America, Eurasia, and North Africa.

Wikipedia contributors, "Honeysuckle", CC BY-SA 4.0Honeysuckle

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Lonicera

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
North-facing, West-facing, South-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Lonicera x brownii 'Dropmore Scarlet' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Climber Wall Shrub
Habit
Climbing
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Height
2.5-4 metres
Spread
0.5-1 metres
Time to full height
5-10 years
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Wall side borders
Fragrance
Mildly fragrant flowers

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Lonicera x brownii 'Dropmore Scarlet'

Cultivation
Plant in well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Water regularly during dry periods. Supports climbing on trellises or walls. Mulch to retain moisture and protect roots in colder climates.
Pruning
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth. Remove dead or weak stems in late winter or early spring.
Propagation
Layering, Hardwood cuttings, Semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistance
Honeysuckle aphids, Thrips, Glasshouse whitefly
Disease resistance
Powdery mildews, Fungal leaf spot, Silver leaf, Honey fungus

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Lonicera x brownii 'Dropmore Scarlet'?

Plant in well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Water regularly during dry periods. Supports climbing on trellises or walls. Mulch to retain moisture and protect roots in colder climates.

Where is the best place to plant Lonicera x brownii 'Dropmore Scarlet'?

Lonicera x brownii 'Dropmore Scarlet' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Lonicera x brownii 'Dropmore Scarlet' need?

Lonicera x brownii 'Dropmore Scarlet' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Lonicera x brownii 'Dropmore Scarlet'?

Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth. Remove dead or weak stems in late winter or early spring.

How big does Lonicera x brownii 'Dropmore Scarlet' grow?

Lonicera x brownii 'Dropmore Scarlet' reaches a height of 2.5-4 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 5-10 years to reach full size.

Is Lonicera x brownii 'Dropmore Scarlet' hardy in the UK?

Lonicera x brownii 'Dropmore Scarlet' has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.

How do I propagate Lonicera x brownii 'Dropmore Scarlet'?

Layering, Hardwood cuttings, Semi-hardwood cuttings.

More in the Lonicera genus

Browse all Lonicera