honeysuckles

Honeysuckles are flowering plants of the genus Lonicera, in the family Caprifoliaceae. They comprise about 180 species of woody vines and shrubs native to the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Many are cultivated as ornamentals and have become naturalized in various regions. They range from evergreen to deciduous and from upright shrubs to twining vines.

The flowers are typically tubular and two-lipped, arranged in pairs along the stems. They are often highly fragrant and come in a variety of colors, including white, yellow, pink, orange, and red. Flowering generally occurs in spring to summer, with some species reblooming later in the season. The nectar produced by honeysuckle flowers attracts a variety of pollinators, especially bees, butterflies, and, in some regions, hummingbirds.

Fruits are small berries that mature after flowering, usually red, orange, or black. Birds are the primary dispersers of the seeds. Many honeysuckle berries are mildly to highly toxic to humans if ingested, and they should not be eaten.

Cultivation and management vary by species but commonly include well-drained soil, full sun to partial shade, and support for climbing forms. Honeysuckles are fast-growing and can be aggressive in some environments, with several species considered invasive in certain regions, notably Lonicera japonica in parts of North America. Pruning is used to control vigor and encourage flowering, while propagation is often by semi-ripe cuttings or layered roots.

Notable species include Lonicera periclymenum (common honeysuckle), Lonicera japonica (Japanese honeysuckle), and Lonicera sempervirens (trumpet honeysuckle). Many cultivars are selected for particularly fragrant or colorful flowers.