Pink Honeysuckle (Lonicera hispidula)

Also known as: Hairy Honeysuckle

Consider the "Pink Honeysuckle" (Lonicera hispidula) as an excellent evergreen vine for ground cover. It can extend from 3 to 20 feet in length and has a loose, sprawling growth habit. This plant produces pinkish-purple flowers in spring, followed by vibrant red berries in the fall. The flowers are rich in honey-sweet nectar, making it a favorite for bees, butterflies, and songbirds.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Pink Honeysuckle

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Vine, Shrub

Plant Height

91 cm to 3 m

Spread

6 m

Leaf Color

Green Blue

Flower Size

0.5 to 1 inch

Flower Color

Pink Purple White Red

Images of Pink Honeysuckle

Quickly Identify Pink Honeysuckle

Lonicera hispidula can be identified by its paired, oval to broadly ovate leaves and its clusters of pink to reddish tubular flowers. The vine often twines around trees and shrubs. The leaves are typically hairy on the underside.

Scientific Classification of Pink Honeysuckle

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Dipsacales

Family

Honeysuckle

Genus

Honeysuckles

Species

Pink Honeysuckle

Planting and Growing of Pink Honeysuckle

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Terracotta

How to Water Pink Honeysuckle?

When watering Lonicera hispidula, aim to thoroughly moisten the soil. A general guideline is to water with about 500ml per session, ensuring the water penetrates at least 6 inches deep into the soil while avoiding waterlogging.

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Pink Honeysuckle?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full sun

Duration of light: 4 to 8 hours daily

Lonicera hispidula ideally requires partial to full sun, balancing 4 to 8 hours of exposure. This promotes vibrant blooms and robust health, making it a thriving asset in an ecological garden.

What type of sunlight does it thrive in? ›

How can you ensure it receives ideal light? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Pink Honeysuckle?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Lonicera hispidula is between 60°F and 75°F. Within this range, the metabolic processes occurring in the plant cells function optimally, allowing for efficient nutrient uptake, photosynthesis, and growth. This temperature not only supports healthy foliage development but also enhances flowering and berry production. Maintaining this temperature range can contribute to overall plant health and resilience.

What Soil is Best for Pink Honeysuckle?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Clay soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Lonicera hispidula thrives best in well-drained loam soil. This type of soil retains just the right amount of moisture necessary for the plant’s growth while also allowing excess water to drain, preventing root rot, which is crucial for robust plant health. The plant requires nutrient-rich soils to flourish. Soils enriched with organic matter enhance its growth, providing essential nutrients that contribute to vibrant foliage and increased flowering potential. Maintaining moderate moisture levels in the soil is critical. This ensures the plant receives enough hydration without the risk of waterlogging, fostering a healthy root system and promoting lush foliage.

How to Fertilize Pink Honeysuckle?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Lonicera hispidula, it is important to provide a balanced amount of fertilizer to ensure the plant grows healthily but not excessively. Begin by using a half-strength liquid fertilizer solution, as overfeeding can lead to excessive growth and poor flowering. For slow-release fertilizers, use about 1/4 cup for each plant, spreading it evenly around the base.

How to Prune Pink Honeysuckle?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin your pruning by removing any dead or diseased branches. This initial step is essential for the overall health of the plant, as it prevents the spread of potential diseases. Use clean, sterilized tools to make clean cuts close to the base, ensuring you do not leave any stubs. To shape the Lonicera hispidula, focus on thinning congested growth to allow sunlight and air circulation within the plant. This can involve trimming branches that cross each other and those growing inward toward the center of the plant. Proper shaping encourages healthier growth patterns and blooms. Given Lonicera hispidula's tendency to sprawl, framework pruning helps maintain its structure. Train the plant by supporting its shoots and selectively trimming to promote a more controlled form that suits your garden aesthetic, while still allowing its natural beauty to come through. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Pink Honeysuckle plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

Gather seeds from mature Lonicera hispidula plants once the berries have ripened. Clean the seeds thoroughly to remove any pulp that may inhibit germination.

Select healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings. Make a clean cut just below a node and remove any leaves from the lower third of the cutting.

Use a well-draining potting mix to fill pots or seed trays. The soil should be lightly moistened to provide adequate moisture for seedling roots.

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How to Repot Pink Honeysuckle plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Look for signs like roots coming out of the drainage holes, soil drying out too quickly, or reduced growth. These indicate that your Lonicera hispidula needs more space and fresher soil to thrive.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one and has good drainage holes. This allows better root expansion and prevents waterlogging, which is crucial for the plant's health.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix to prevent root rot. A mix with sand, perlite, and peat moss works well, ensuring that the roots have enough air circulation.

Toxicity of Pink Honeysuckle

Is Pink Honeysuckle toxic to humans?

The Pink Honeysuckle carries a slight toxicity risk to humans, mainly when its fruits, which harbor saponins, are ingested. Consumption of these fruits may result in various symptoms, including gastrointestinal discomfort manifesting as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The intensity of these symptoms can fluctuate based on the amount consumed. Thus, it is crucial for individuals, particularly those who forage or have children tempted by the fruit, to recognize the possibility of mild poisoning and to avoid unintentional consumption of the toxic components. While other parts of the plant are generally safe, one should remain vigilant to deter the eating of the fruit.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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