A vigorous twining climber valued for its intensely sweet-scented white flowers that age to yellow through summer. Beautiful and nectar-rich, but a declared environmental weed that smothers native vegetation.
At a glance
- Plant type: Climber
- Mature size: 9 m H × 5 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: high maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Japanese Honeysuckle
Lonicera japonica is a fast-growing climber in the Caprifoliaceae family. It reaches around 9 m tall and 5 m wide at maturity, with semi-deciduous foliage. White and yellow flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Japanese Honeysuckle
Japanese Honeysuckle suits warm-temperate, cool-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Japanese Honeysuckle does best in loamy and free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in. For a screen, space plants about 3 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Japanese Honeysuckle does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed as new growth begins, following the rate on a balanced garden fertiliser. Check moisture below the mulch during establishment and water thoroughly when needed rather than following a rigid schedule.
Pruning & care
Prune Japanese Honeysuckle after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. For most gardens, it is high maintenance.
Using Japanese Honeysuckle in the garden
Japanese Honeysuckle earns its place for its fragrance, a fast screen or informal hedge, drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden and feeding bees and pollinators.
Companion planting & design
Japanese Honeysuckle sits most comfortably beside plants adapted to regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. A small cluster gives stronger visual impact than isolated plants scattered through the garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew. It is thornless and easy to handle. Be aware it can self-seed or spread into bushland in some regions — check it is not a declared weed in your area before planting.
Buying Japanese Honeysuckle
Plant Sale lists Japanese Honeysuckle as potted plants and advanced specimens. Use the quote builder above to ask about current stock, sizes and pricing.
