Lonicera sempervirens | Coral Honeysuckle

Coral Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens) is a vigorous twining vine in the Caprifoliaceae (honeysuckle) family that is native to the southeastern United States and evergreen in the warm winter climates of the deep South. It will grow in some shade, but flowers best in full sun. This is a twining vine that can reach 10 to 20 feet tall and 3 to 6 feet wide. It needs a support structure and thus is an excellent choice for a trellis, arbor, or fence. However, it can also be allowed to sprawl as a ground cover.

This native honeysuckle flowers in mid-spring, and is often non-fragrant. It is a nice addition to a butterfly, native, or pollinator garden. The coral-red trumpet shaped flowers attract hummingbirds. Its salt tolerance makes it especially welcome in coastal gardens.

For more information visit  For more information visit the North Carolina Extension Plant Toolbox and/or Kathy Copley’s Plant Showcase on the Brunswick County Master Gardener Volunteer Association website.

Photo Credit: Vicki Fuhrmann