Dwarf honeysuckle - Lonicera xylosteum (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Dwarf honeysuckle

Also known as: Fly woodbine

Dwarf honeysuckle is a deciduous shrub that is commonly used as a hedge or planted for screening purposes. This mounding shrub can mature to 9 to 12 m tall, and its white flowers are quite showy. The dwarf honeysuckle is unique from other honeysuckles in that it is pollinated by flies, although it is still attractive to bees and butterflies.

Scientific classification

Species

Dwarf honeysuckle (Lonicera xylosteum)

Honeysuckles, moschatels and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Late spring, Early summer

Bloom Time

Mid summer, Late summer

Harvest Time

1 m to 2 m

Plant Height

2.5 m to 3 m

Spread

Green, Gray, Silver

Leaf Color

8 mm to 1.5 cm

Flower Size

Red, Yellow

Fruit Color

White, Yellow, Cream

Flower Color

Images of Dwarf honeysuckle

Distribution of Dwarf honeysuckle

Distribution Map

Dwarf honeysuckle is native to Europe and parts of Asia, and was introduced to North America. Dwarf honeysuckle's natural ecosystem is scrub, woods, and hedgerows. It prefers basic or pH-neutral soils.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Abandoned field, Forest, Open disturbed area, yard, Garden

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Dwarf honeysuckle is a deciduous, fast-growing flowering shrub, renowned and cultivated for its numerous sweet-scented flowers that bloom during spring. It grows quickly and densely, and its low-maintenance needs make it a good choice for hedges, foundations, borders, screens, and slopes in climates with cooler summers. It also attracts pollinators and birds which eat the dark red berries and help disperse the seeds. However, the berries should never be consumed by humans due to toxicity.

Symbolism

Pure happiness, prosperity, sweetness, affection, devotion

Interesting Facts

Dwarf honeysuckle is an excellent landscaping plant for hard to grow areas. This tough little shrub is extremely adaptable to sun, part sun, and even shade. It will grow easily with little care in areas that grass does not seem to grow in. The fragrant yellow flowers attract hummingbirds, but the berries can be toxic if eaten.

Name Story

Dwarf honeysuckle: It is one of two honeysuckles that are native to Britain with the other being the common honeysuckle (Lonicera periclymenum). As compared to the common honeysuckle, it is much smaller. Therefore, it is called a dwarf honeysuckle.

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Toxicity

Dwarf honeysuckle is mildly toxic when ingested in large quantities. Children, cats, and dogs are at risk due to its appealing berries. Symptoms include gastrointestinal issues, vomiting, and diarrhea. Direct contact can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Immediate veterinary care is essential if cats or dogs consume the fruits, which are the toxic parts of the plant.

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Care Guide for Dwarf honeysuckle

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 25 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Dwarf honeysuckle thrives in moderate climates with consistent moisture. Water every 1-2 weeks, keeping soil evenly moist but not dry. Mulching helps retain moisture and protect against temperature extremes, essential for this outdoor plant facing varying weather conditions.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, dwarf honeysuckle needs balanced, slow-release fertilizers in early spring and mid-summer. Use balanced NPK or high-nitrogen feeds pre-flowering. Fertilize lightly, avoiding over or under-fertilization. Reduce feeding in fall to prepare dwarf honeysuckle for dormancy, ensuring moist soil during fertilization for better nutrient uptake.

Pruning: Dwarf honeysuckle is a dense deciduous shrub with small leaves and fragrant flowers. Prune in early spring to enhance air circulation and plant health by removing older stems and damaged branches. Avoid heavy pruning in summer to reduce stress. Consult reliable sources for detailed guidance.

Propagation: Dwarf honeysuckle is propagated via cuttings from healthy, semi-ripe stems, approximately 15 cm (6 inches) long. Remove lower leaves, dip the cut ends in rooting hormone, and place in a well-draining potting mix. Ensure consistent moisture and warmth for root establishment within weeks.

Repotting: Repot dwarf honeysuckle every 2-3 years in early spring to boost vigor. Select a pot slightly larger for root growth. After repotting, maintain consistent moisture and shield from direct sunlight for a week to minimize stress and aid recovery.

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Images of Dwarf honeysuckle

Distribution of Dwarf honeysuckle

Culture

Toxicity

Care Guide for Dwarf honeysuckle

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