Mississippi Native: Coral Honeysuckle
(Lonicera sempervirens)
Downloadable Brochure: CORAL HONEYSUCKLE
Other Name/s:
Trumpet Honeysuckle and Woodbine
Description:
This native plant is a slender climbing vine. The flowers are a trumpet shape ranging from coral to red on the outside and yellow on the inside with 2 or more flowers clustered together. This vine also displays berries that are red to black in color. The color of the bark is orange/brown, which has a papery texture. The paired leaves are deep green, glossy, rounded, and smooth.
Season:
This perennial blooms March – June.
Size:
This plant can reach lengths of 15 to 20 feet. Flowers reach lengths of 2 inches. The fruit, on average, is ¼ of an inch long.
Habitat:
This is a hardy plant living in a variety of soils.
Interesting Facts:
Although the coral honeysuckle is a climbing plant, it is also good for ground cover, growing rapidly. The flowers attract birds (especially hummingbirds), butterflies, and bees. The berries also attract different species of birds, such as cardinals and purple finches.
Planting Tips:
This honeysuckle is best planted in the spring from seeds or cuttings. Although able to withstand some drought, the coral honeysuckle prefers moist soil, thus should be watered regularly. These plants must be spaced 3 to 4 feet apart and in full sun to part shade.
Pruning is essential as this vine can be slightly invasive, but pruning should be attempted very little after March when blooming starts.
