Description:

A very special large shrub, prized for its exceptionally fragrant flowers which appear in very early spring before the leaves, not very showy; the rest of the year somewhat unassuming; very adaptable and tough, locate near walkways for maximum enjoyment

Ornamental Features

Winter Honeysuckle is clothed in stunning fragrant creamy white bell-shaped flowers along the branches from late winter to early spring before the leaves. It has bluish-green deciduous foliage. The round leaves do not develop any appreciable fall color. It produces red berries from early to mid summer.

Landscape Attributes

Winter Honeysuckle is a multi-stemmed deciduous shrub with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its average texture blends into the landscape, but can be balanced by one or two finer or coarser trees or shrubs for an effective composition.

This is a relatively low maintenance shrub, and is best pruned in late winter once the threat of extreme cold has passed. It is a good choice for attracting butterflies and hummingbirds to your yard. It has no significant negative characteristics.

Winter Honeysuckle is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Mass Planting
• Hedges/Screening
• General Garden Use

Planting & Growing

Winter Honeysuckle will grow to be about 12 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 10 feet. It tends to be a little leggy, with a typical clearance of 2 feet from the ground, and is suitable for planting under power lines. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 30 years.

This shrub performs well in both full sun and full shade. It does best in average to evenly moist conditions, but will not tolerate standing water. It may require supplemental watering during periods of drought or extended heat. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This species is not originally from North America.