Lonicera periclymenum aka Honeysuckle

Lonicera periclymenum is known as woodbine or European honeysuckle. This woody climber belongs to the honeysuckle family, Caprifoliaceae. Its native range covers Europe, North Africa and southwest Asia. It is native to Britain and Ireland. It grows in woods, scrub and hedges. It has also become established in parts of North America. These include eastern Canada, New England and the Pacific Northwest.

This fast-growing vine sheds its leaves each year. Its thin stems twist around supports as they climb. North American sources give heights of 10–20 feet [3–6.1 metres]. RHS gives a taller range of 13–26 feet [4–8 metres]. Its final height depends in part on its support. Spread ranges from 3–6 feet [0.9–1.8 metres] in American accounts. RHS gives 8–13 feet [2.5–4 metres]. The smooth stems are tan or brown, sometimes tinged purple. Oval leaves grow in pairs along the stems. Their upper sides are dark green, with paler undersides. They fall while still green, without bright autumn colour.

The tubular flowers have two lips and form end clusters. White or cream blooms turn yellow as they age. Some have a purple-red tint on the outside. Their scent grows stronger after dark and draws moths. Bees and butterflies also pollinate the flowers. Sources place flowering from spring through summer, sometimes until frost. Deep red berries ripen in September. They measure about a quarter-inch across. The flowers and fruit add colour to garden screens.

Grow it in fertile soil that drains well but stays moist. It accepts clay, loam, sand and chalk. It also tolerates acid, neutral and alkaline soils. Partial shade suits it best, though it accepts full sun. In hot summers, give it shade during the afternoon. Keep the roots shaded while shoots climb towards light. Established plants can cope with some drought. Sources place its cold limit at USDA zone 4. RHS rates it H6. Give it a fence, trellis or arbor to climb. Prune after flowering when needed.

Dense growth can screen a garden or cover a bank. It gives birds nesting cover and supports moth and butterfly larvae. Serious problems are uncommon, but mildew and leaf spots can occur. Silver leaf, aphids, scale, thrips and whitefly are also reported. PFAF records nectar use and past medicinal uses. These records do not establish safe home treatments. The berries are not food for people or pets. RHS warns both groups against eating them.