Honeysuckle Plant Care
Lonicera japonica Thunb.
Lonicera japonica, known as Japanese honeysuckle and golden-and-silver honeysuckle, is a species of honeysuckle native to East Asia, including many parts of China. It is often grown as an ornamental plant, but has become an invasive species in a number of countries.
Every 7–14 days
Full sun to part shade
50–80°F
40–70%
What Is the Honeysuckle?
Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) belongs to the Caprifoliaceae family within the Lonicera genus. Honeysuckle is native to East Asia, including many parts of China. Honeysuckle is also known as Japanese Honeysuckle, Hall's Honeysuckle, Chinese Honeysuckle.
Honeysuckle displays a vining, twining shrub growth habit, reaching up to 10 inches tall with a spread of approximately 6 inches. Honeysuckle produces fragrant tubular flowers in shades of white, pink, or yellow.
Leaf size: approximately 3 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Honeysuckle?
Lonicera japonica requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Honeysuckle Need?
Honeysuckle thrives in full sun to part shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–1000 lux. Avoid placing Honeysuckle in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to part shade
200–1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Honeysuckle Prefer?
Lonicera japonica grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 80°F. Honeysuckle prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.
Temperature
50–80°F
Humidity
40–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Honeysuckle?
Rich, well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Honeysuckle to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Honeysuckle?
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Honeysuckle?
Honeysuckle can be propagated through softwood cuttings, layering, seeds.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Honeysuckle Toxic to Pets and Children?
Toxic to Pets & Children
Berries may be mildly toxic if ingested
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Honeysuckle?
Honeysuckle is susceptible to aphids, scale insects, powdery mildew. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Honeysuckle Need?
Honeysuckle grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. Native to East Asia, including many parts of China, Honeysuckle is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Honeysuckle as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 12a
Keep exploring plants
Honeysuckle is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Lonicera genus — compare its care with other Lonicera species on PlantoScan.
Honeysuckle tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
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