Japanese Honeysuckle
Lonicera japonica
A vigorous woody vine featuring opposite, oval green leaves and tubular, highly fragrant flowers that open white and age to yellow.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade, approximately 6 hours or more of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering.
- Water
- Water deeply when the top few inches of soil feel dry. Drought tolerant once established.
- Growth
- Vigorous perennial woody vine or scrambling shrub, capable of climbing several meters high with rapid growth rate.
Care instructions
Provide full sun to partial shade in well-draining soil. Water regularly during establishment, but mature plants tolerate moderate drought. Prune annually after flowering to manage growth and maintain shape.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade, approximately 6 hours or more of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering.
Watering
Water deeply when the top few inches of soil feel dry. Drought tolerant once established.
Soil
Adapts to a wide range of well-draining soil types including loam, clay, or sandy soils, with a preferred neutral to slightly acidic pH.
Hardiness zone
USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 9.
Growth habit
Vigorous perennial woody vine or scrambling shrub, capable of climbing several meters high with rapid growth rate.
Bloom season
Late spring through mid-summer, producing paired tubular white flowers that transition to yellow, featuring prominent protruding stamens.
Propagation
Propagated easily through softwood or hardwood cuttings taken in spring or summer, as well as by layering and seed.
Common pests & issues
Generally resilient, but may occasionally be affected by aphids, powdery mildew, or leaf blight. Prevent by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Similar species
Trumpet Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens), which features red, non-fragrant tubular flowers and leaves fused just below the stem tip.