Lonicera sempervirens, commonly known as Honeysuckle, is a native, twining deciduous vine celebrated for its tubular, coral to reddish-orange flowers that attract hummingbirds and bloom profusely from late spring through summer. This fast-growing vine typically reaches 10 to 20 feet long and climbs by twining around arbors, trellises, fences, or other supports. Unlike invasive honeysuckle species, Lonicera sempervirens is well-behaved in gardens and valued for its ornamental blooms, blue-green foliage, and small red berries that attract songbirds in late summer and fall.

Why choose Lonicera sempervirens

Hummingbird magnet: Tubular flowers are a key nectar source

Native species: Non-invasive and ecologically beneficial

Seasonal color: Blooms in spring and summer, with berries in fall

Cultivating tips

Sun exposure: Full sun for best flowering; tolerates light shade

Soil needs: Adaptable to most well-drained soils

Maintenance: Low—prune after flowering to shape or control size

Designs for your garden

Trellises and arbors: Climbs naturally and blooms beautifully overhead

Fences and railings: Covers vertical spaces with color and movement

Wildlife gardens: Provides food and shelter for birds and pollinators

Ecological benefits

Pollinator support: Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and native bees

Bird habitat: Berries are a food source for birds in late summer

Erosion control: Works well along fences or slopes where vines can anchor