Lonicera fragrantissima, also known as Winter Honeysuckle, thrives best under full sun to partial sun conditions. For ideal growth, position this plant where it will receive between 4 to 8 hours of sunlight daily.

Winter honeysuckle (Lonicera fragrantissima)

Also known as: Fragrant honeysuckle, Chinese honeysuckle, Sweetest honeysuckle

The plant you're referring to is likely the Winter Honeysuckle (Lonicera fragrantissima). This sizable deciduous shrub is known for its strong, pleasant fragrance. Bees are drawn to its creamy white blossoms, but its berries are toxic.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Winter honeysuckle

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

1 m to 3 m

Spread

1.8 m to 3 m

Leaf Color

Green Blue

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

White Yellow Cream

Images of Winter honeysuckle

Quickly Identify Winter honeysuckle

Deciduous to semi-evergreen shrub, sprawling to 6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters) in height and width.

Creamy-white flowers with lemon scent, blooming December to March, tubular with thin petals.

Distinctive heart-shaped, orange to dark red berries, around 0.3 inches (7.6 mm) in size.

Leathery, elliptic to ovate leaves, blue-green to dark green, 1-3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm).

Solid stems with white pith, purple when young, 0.5 inches (1.27 cm) in diameter.

Scientific Classification of Winter honeysuckle

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Honeysuckles, moschatels and allies

Family

Honeysuckle

Genus

Honeysuckles

Species

Winter honeysuckle

Planting and Growing of Winter honeysuckle

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-70℉

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, Ceramic

How to Water Winter honeysuckle?

Lonicera fragrantissima prefers to have its soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water generously until the soil is saturated and water drains from the bottom of the pot, ensuring even moisture through the entire root system. Adjust the amount based on weather conditions, with more frequent watering during hot or windy periods.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Winter honeysuckle? ›

What should I do if my Winter honeysuckle is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Winter honeysuckle? ›

How to save an overwatered Winter honeysuckle? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Winter honeysuckle?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 8 hours

Lonicera fragrantissima ideally thrives in full sun to partial sun, receiving 4 to 8 hours of sunlight. Access to this light range enhances flowering, maintains vibrant foliage, and supports overall health.

Optimal Sun Exposure ›

Solution for Ideal Lighting ›

Benefits of Ideal Sunlight ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Winter honeysuckle?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 70℉

For optimal growth, Lonicera fragrantissima thrives best when the temperature ranges between 60°F and 70°F. These conditions support the plant's metabolic processes, ensuring healthy foliage and robust flowering. Maintaining this temperature range encourages the plant to achieve its full potential in terms of growth and aesthetic appeal.

What Soil is Best for Winter honeysuckle?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Lonicera fragrantissima thrives in well-drained soil, which prevents root rot and ensures that the roots have access to necessary oxygen and nutrients. Proper drainage helps reduce waterlogging, promoting healthier growth. The plant prefers moderately fertile soil that provides essential nutrients for growth. A soil enriched with organic matter will support robust flowering and fruiting. Enrich the soil with compost to maintain the nutrient levels. While needing well-drained conditions, this honeysuckle also benefits from soil that can retain moisture without becoming soggy. It supports consistent hydration, crucial for optimal growth, especially during dry spells.

How to Fertilize Winter honeysuckle?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Lonicera fragrantissima, use about 1/2 cup of a balanced 10-10-10 liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. For slow-release fertilizer, apply about 1 cup granules per shrub. Adjust based on plant size and growth phase.

How to Prune Winter honeysuckle?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Prune after the flowering season in late spring or early summer. Start by cutting back any dead, diseased, or damaged wood to encourage vigorous new growth. Maintain a strong structure by selectively cutting back old stems to the base to promote fresh shoots. Always use sharp, clean pruning shears to make clean cuts just above a bud or lateral branch. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Winter honeysuckle plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Spring, Early summer

Gather seeds from mature berries of Lonicera fragrantissima during early autumn. Ensure seeds are fully ripe before collection to increase germination success.

Select healthy, non-flowering shoots for cuttings in late spring or early summer. Cut the stem approximately 4-6 inches long, just below a node, and remove the lower leaves.

Choose a healthy low branch in early spring, wound the stem lightly, and fasten it to the ground using a wire loop. Cover with soil and keep moist until roots develop.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Winter honeysuckle plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Signs that Lonicera fragrantissima needs repotting include roots visibly growing through drainage holes, soil drying out faster than usual, or stunted growth. Spring and autumn are ideal times since they offer mild temperatures and the plant is not undergoing extreme conditions.

Select a pot that is 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one to ensure ample room for growth. Material should allow for good drainage, like terracotta or plastic with multiple holes. This prevents waterlogging and root rot, ensuring healthy growth.

Use a loamy, well-draining soil that retains moisture but allows excess water to escape. This soil type provides essential nutrients and prevents waterlogging, ensuring that your Lonicera fragrantissima can develop robust roots and thrive in the new pot.

Toxicity of Winter honeysuckle

Is Winter honeysuckle toxic to cat?

Winter honeysuckle poses a moderate risk of toxicity to cats. Ingestion of certain parts of the plant, particularly the fruits, can lead to toxic effects. A cat that consumes any part of winter honeysuckle may exhibit signs of physical distress or illness. It is essential to monitor for any changes in behavior or health; if ingestion is suspected, the cat should be taken to a veterinary clinic immediately for evaluation and care.

Is Winter honeysuckle toxic to dog?

The plant species known as winter honeysuckle is acknowledged to possess a moderate level of toxicity for dogs. Dogs can experience poisoning primarily through the ingestion of this plant. The toxic components are located in its fruits, which, if consumed, may lead to various adverse health effects in dogs. Pet owners should exercise caution and ensure that their dogs do not eat these fruits. Symptoms of poisoning can differ but may include gastrointestinal disturbances, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and potentially more serious reactions depending on the quantity ingested and the dog's individual sensitivity. It is vital for dog owners to keep a close watch on their pets and seek immediate veterinary assistance if they believe their dog has consumed any part of winter honeysuckle. Timely treatment is essential for effectively managing any possible poisoning.

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.

More About Toxic Techniques→