Winter-flowering Honeysuckle Lonicera fragrantissima

Lonicera fragrantissima is considered invasive in many states. The seeds are dispersed by birds and mammals that eat the berries. It can form a dense understory thicket restricting native plant growth and tree seedling establishment. Consider planting native plants.

The easy to grow Winter Honeysuckle thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. This large, wide, spreading, rounded deciduous or semi-evergreen (in the South) shrub with cane-like growth is best for the middle or back of the border. Typically it grows from 6.5 feet to 9 feet high and wide but may reach 12 to 15 feet high and wide. Leaves look like other honeysuckle leaves but are wider and more rounded. Small, white flowers start in January and continue through March. The fragrance is consistent with a hint of lemon. It transplants readily, is tolerant of soil pH and poor soils but is intolerant of wet conditions.

Winter Honeysuckle can fit in today’s smaller landscapes when used as a cutback shrub. Because it blooms early on growth from last year, it can be cut back close to the ground right after flowering and allowed to grow and flower the next winter. In addition to being a great ornamental, it is an excellent winter nectar source for honey bees and is effective for winter garden fragrance.