Orange Honeysuckle • Lonicera ciliosa

As winter wanes and temperatures start to rise, Orange Honeysuckle begins its annual growth cycle. New shoots emerge from the base of the plant or from existing stems. The first signs of leaves unfurl, and buds form at the tips of the stems.

Summer is peak growing season, as by then the vine's leaves are fully developed, providing a lush green backdrop for its vibrant orange-red trumpet-shaped flowers. These flowers typically appear in clusters at the ends of the stems. 

In late summer, the flowering period begins to taper off, and fertilized flowers start developing into small, green berries. 

As fall progresses, leaves begin to change color to various shades of yellow, orange, and red. The green berries that formed earlier also undergo a color change, turning from green to orange or red. They will persist through the winter, giving food to local wildlife during a time when many other food sources are absent.

Select a planting site that receives partial to dappled sunlight. While it can tolerate some sunlight, it generally prefers locations with filtered light, such as under the canopy of larger trees.

It prefers well-draining, moist soils but can't tolerate waterlogged conditions. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the first growing season while the plant establishes its root system, but be careful not to overwater. Soil pH should be between 5.0 and 7.0 for proper establishment and performance.

Pruning can be done after the plant's flowering period, usually in late summer or early fall. Remove any dead, diseased, or overcrowded stems. Light pruning can help maintain the plant's shape and encourage new growth.

If planting as a climbing vine, be sure to provide strong support. While it is pest and disease resistant, deer have been known to munch on Orange Honeysuckle.