How to identify Trumpet honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens)

How to identify Trumpet honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens)

Trumpet honeysuckle, also known as Scarlet honeysuckle

Trumpet honeysuckle features a robust twining growth habit, flourishing as a climbing vine. It sports oval-shaped, blue-green leaves that range from 1-3 inches (2.5-7.6 cm) in length. The plant is well-known for its showy, trumpet-shaped flowers, which are tubular and flare out into five distinct lobes, each flower measuring approximately 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) in length. These vibrant blooms are predominantly a vivid red or coral hue, with occasional variations showing yellow or orange tinges inside. The flowers are typically arranged in whorled clusters.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Vine

Leaf Type: Semi-evergreen

Quickly Identify Trumpet honeysuckle

Twining growth habit with climbing vine structure.

Showy trumpet-shaped flowers in red, coral, yellow, or orange hues.

Oval blue-green leaves, 1-3 inches (2.5-7.6 cm) long.

Fruit as small, red berries less than 1 inch (2.54 cm) in diameter.

Opposite, simple leaves; ovate to oblong-ovate, dark bluish-green.

Detailed Traits of Trumpet honeysuckle

Leaf Features

The leaves of trumpet honeysuckle are opposite, simple, and vary in shape from ovate to oblong-ovate. They are typically 3 inches (7.6 cm) long and 2 inches (5.1 cm) across, with a dark bluish-green color. The underside of the leaves is glaucous and pubescent. The leaves have smooth margins. Notably, the leaves just below the flowers form a ring as they fuse at the base into an oblong disk. Early season leaves are linear and strap-like while later leaves become oblong to elliptic or obovate.

Leaf Arrangement

Opposite

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

Trumpet honeysuckle has large, narrow, trumpet-shaped flowers that feature a striking color combination of rich scarlet to orange-red on the outside and yellowish hues inside. Each flower is approximately 1.5-2 inches (3.8-5 cm) long. The flowers have 4 upper lobes and 1 lower lobe, arranged in whorled clusters at the stem ends. Blooming occurs from late spring to mid-summer (March to July). These flowers are non-fragrant, making them identifiable by their vivid coloration and unique shape.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stem of trumpet honeysuckle is twining and straw-colored, exhibiting a smooth and hairless (glabrous) texture, especially on new growth. It is slender yet resilient, allowing it to effectively climb and wrap around supports. The branching pattern is consistent, with stems emerging in a spiral formation. Typically, the stem remains relatively thin, not exceeding a diameter of 0.2 inches (5 mm). These characteristics make the stem of trumpet honeysuckle distinct and identifiable among similar species.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of trumpet honeysuckle emerges as rounded, inedible berries that are notably less than 1 inch (2.54 cm) in diameter. These berries showcase an arresting red hue, maturing in late summer to early fall. Their ornamental appeal peaks from July to September when they are most conspicuous. The glossy, spherical berries are a compelling visual draw for birds, though they remain unsuitable for human consumption. The ability of trumpet honeysuckle's fruit to add a splash of color to the surroundings is one of its most charming attributes.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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