Lonicera sempervirens aka Coral Honeysuckle

Taxonomy

Lonicera sempervirens, also known as coral honeysuckle, trumpet honeysuckle, or scarlet honeysuckle, is a vigorous, deciduous or semi-evergreen twining climber. This flowering plant species is native to the eastern United States and is highly recognized for its reddish tubular flowers with yellow throats, which bloom in whorled clusters at the ends of the stems during the summer and autumn seasons. The vine can reach heights of about 3-4m and has oval leaves that are dark green on the upper side and grey-green beneath. Following the blooming period, bright red berries appear. Although primarily found in the southeastern U.S., trumpet honeysuckle has escaped from gardens and naturalized in various parts of the eastern U.S., including central and southern Missouri, where it can be found along roadsides, stream banks, and in thickets.

Common names

Coral Honeysuckle, Trumpet Honeysuckle, Everblooming Honeysuckle

How to care for Coral Honeysuckle

Difficulty

Coral Honeysuckle presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Coral Honeysuckle should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Coral Honeysuckle loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Coral Honeysuckle thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Everblooming Honeysuckle.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it's common for Coral Honeysuckle to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

Repotting the Coral Honeysuckle is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Coral Honeysuckle’s native range is Eastern and Southern N. America - Connecticut to Florida and Texas.


More info:
Wikipedia