Jenny's Garden

Lonicera fragrantissima
(Winter Honeysuckle)

Origin:  Native to China
Family:  Caprifolaceae
Light:  Sun-part shade
Height:  4-6'
Spacing:  6-8'
Blooms:  Fragrant, sweet lemony scent, small, waxy, white with pink tinge, dangling, on old wood, before foliage appears, late Winter
Foliage:  Deciduous, oval, yellowish-green young leaves maturing to blue-green
Fruits:  Small, round, smooth, green berries matures to pink then red, late Spring
Soil:  Well-drained, loamy, moist, tolerates drought
Water:  Moderate-low
Propagation:  Seeds, cuttings, layering
Uses:  Xeriscaping, landscaping, bird garden, hedge, background planting, screen

Comments:  Lonicera fragrantissima or Winter Honeysuckle is a deciduous perennial shrub with a sprawling woody growth habit.  It is part evergreen in the southern regions.  In late Winter or early Spring, this native from China produces very fragrant, small waxy, white sweet, lemony-scented blossoms appearing on old wood.  This is followed later by small pink round berries in late Spring or early Summer.  The berries appear two together side by side and are not easily visible as they are hidden among the leaves.  Birds enjoy feasting on the berries of Lonicera fragrantissima.  It has interesting exfoliating bark that is rather appealing.  Winter Honeysuckle  is easily propagated from stem cuttings, seeds or layering.  It thrives best in well-drained, loamy moist soil.  Lonicera fragrantissima also tolerates drought and is ideal for xeriscaping.  Prune plant after flowering season is over to maintain shape and size.  Use Winter Honeysuckle as a hedge or screen.  Plant it in the back of the border near the house for the lovely fragrance to be appreciated as it permeates the Winter landscape and surrounding areas nearby.  Curious foot traffic inquired and raved about the the splendid aroma as they take several deep breaths.  Lonicera fragrantissima is a delightful harbinger of Spring.  

USDA Zones:  4-8