Pink Honeysuckle • Lonicera hispidula
Growth Habit and Environment
Lonicera hispidula is a deciduous woody vine or sprawling shrub, depending on its growing conditions and support. Its growth habit can vary from a twining vine that climbs on other vegetation or structures to a more shrub-like form that spreads along the ground. The stems of Lonicera hispidula are covered in fine hairs, giving them a "hairy" texture. If grown as a climbing vine, it can reach 20ft in length, and as a shrub it will grow 3-5ft tall and 15-20ft wide. It can be found in a range of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, stream banks, and forest edges, and has native distribution from Canada down to Southern California, primarily along coastal mountain ranges.
Seasonal Cycle
As spring arrives, buds on the vines or shrub start to swell and eventually burst open, producing new leaves and stems. This is a period of rapid growth as the plant capitalizes on increasing daylight and warming temperatures.
In late spring to early summer its tubular flowers emerge. These flowers are fragrant and attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Flowering can start in April and continue into May or June, but it depends on yearly conditions.
In mid to late summer, the green berries that formed in spring from fertilized flowers slowly ripen and change color, typically turning red or orange-red.
In the fall, leaves may start to change color as the weather cools. Depending on the climate, they might turn shades of yellow, orange, or red before falling off as it prepares for winter. Often leaves from Pink Honeysuckle are some of the last to reach the ground, many persisting through most of the winter.
Planting Tips
Choose a planting location that receives partial to full sun. Pink Honeysuckle can tolerate some shade, but it tends to flower more profusely in sunnier spots. Ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogged roots. Sandy or loamy soils are ideal.
Provide consistent moisture during the plant's establishment period, usually the first year after planting. Water deeply but less frequently to encourage deep root growth. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant, but it's best to water during dry spells, especially during hot summer months.
If you're growingPink Honeysuckle as a climbing vine, provide a sturdy support structure such as a trellis, fence, or arbor. Train the vines to climb the support structure by gently tying them in place with soft plant ties. Do not use ties made with metal material.
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