Description
Trumpet honeysuckle is a vigorous twining vine in the Caprifoliaceae (honeysuckle) family that is native to the southeastern United States and evergreen in the warm winter climates of the deep South. The genus Lonicera is named for Adam Lonicerus, a German botanist from the 1500s. The species epithet is Latin for "ever green."
Trumpet honeysuckle grows in medium moisture, well-drained, neutral to acidic soils in full sun. It will grow in some shade, but best flowering is in full sun. It likes organically rich soils. It flowers on new growth, so avoid pruning until after flowering. High nitrogen fertilizer will produce foliage at the expense of flowers. Propagate by layering, stem cutting, or seed.
This is a twining vine that can reach 10 to 20 feet tall and 3 to 6 feet wide. It needs a support structure and thus is an excellent choice for a trellis, arbor, or fence. However, it can also be allowed to sprawl as a ground cover. Native honeysuckle is not invasive, flowers in mid-spring, and is often non-fragrant. It is a nice addition to a butterfly, native, or pollinator garden. Its salt tolerance makes it especially welcome in coastal gardens.
Fire Risk: This plant has an extreme flammability rating and should not be planted within the defensible space of your home. Plants with a low flammability rating should be chosen for areas closest to the house.
Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Watch for aphids. Powdery mildew and leaf spots may occur, particularly in hot and humid summer climates.
From North Carolina Extention
Coral Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens)
Common Name Coral Honeysuckle
Trumpet Honeysuckle
Scientific Name Lonicera sempervirens Plant Type Perennial, Vine Zone 4-9 Height 10-20' Width 3-6' Growth Habit Climbing, Creeping,
Multi-stemmed,
Spreading
Growth Rate Rapid Bloom Time Spring/Summer
Light
RequirementsFull Sun (>6 hrs)
Partial Shade (2-6 hrs)
Water Needs Moist, Good Drainage Soil Type Clay
High Organic Matter
Loam (Silt)
Acid (<6)- Neutral (6-8)
Animal Resistance Deer (foliage may be eaten by deer), Rabbit Tolerance Black Walnut, Compaction
Salt
Uses Border, Specimen, Vertical Spaces Origin Southeastern US Wildlife Hummingbirds, bees, butterflies,
Songbirds
Companion Plant
Suggestions
Coneflowers, Salvia, Catmint, Anise hyssop, Coreopsis, Roses, Peonies, American Beautyberry