Yellow Honeysuckle Lonicera flava

Yellow honeysuckle is a perennial, woody vine or sprawling shrub in the honeysuckle family (Caprifoliaceae) native to the central and southeastern USA. It is found in rocky soils in woods, slopes, bluffs, ledges and stream margins. The species epithet is Latin for “yellow.”

It is easy to grow in full sun to partial shade, with an average level of moisture. Once established, it can take some drought. It is unfussy about soil type and tolerates rocky soils, but it will perform better on humus-rich, well-drained soils.

It will climb a trellis (with a little help) or grow along the ground, or it can grow more upright and shrub-like. The flowers, which appear in spring, are bright yellow when they first open, but they darken with age, becoming orange before they fall. They are fragrant and attract a wide variety of pollinators, including hummingbirds. Yellow honeysuckle can be pruned to shape, and blossoms will appear on old growth. They are not self-fruitful, and two plants are necessary for cross-pollination. Mulch in winter to protect the roots.

This is a good vine for a bird garden as the berries attract birds and small mammals. Use this vine on a trellis or fence and for screening. It will give vertical presence (with a trellis) in a perennial border. It is suitable for a native plant garden, a pollinator or butterfly garden or a cottage garden. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems.

More information on Lonicera.