Coral Honeysuckle

Lonicera sempervirens

Coral honeysuckle is a twining woody vine that is evergreen or tardily deciduous in mild climates. The smooth leaves are arranged opposite each other along the stem.  The flowers are tube shaped coral red or bright orange on the outside and yellow on the inside. The flowers are a favorite of hummingbirds. Big red berries persist in fall and early winter.  Unlike its weedy relative, Japanese honeysuckle (L. japonica), coral honeysuckle will not spread out of control, and its sparse vines won't strangle your shrubs. It is great for arbors.

Masses of flowers appear in clusters from spring through July or August then sporadically thereafter. Wherever coral honeysuckle grows, hummingbirds, bees and butterflies will find it. The flowers produce fruit relished by birds like the cardinal goldfinch, hermit thrush,  American robin and purple finch.  Coral honeysuckle is also a larval host for spring azure butterfly and snowberry clearwing moth.

Coral Honeysuckle is best in full sun and average soil, but would also do well in light shade. As you might expect from an environmentally friendly native, the coral honeysuckle’s needs are minimal. Prune coral honeysuckle back in the winter to increase flowering. Don't over-fertilize.