Lonicera fragrantissima

Winter Honeysuckle
Lonicera Fragrantissima
Type: Evergreen to Semi-Evergreen Shrub (here in USDA zone 8)
Exposure: Sun / Part Shade
Water: Regular to Drought Tolerant

This native of China forms a slightly disheveled-looking mass of stiff branches that will ultimately form a clump of foliage 10ft (3m) high with equal spread. The most fragrant of the shrubby honeysuckles, Winter Honeysuckle produces 1/2in (1.3cm) creamy-white, two lipped blossoms in late winter to early spring (the ones around here were getting an early start, when these photos were taken), that are said to have a lemony perfume. These blooms in turn produce somewhat inconspicuous, dull red berries in late spring or summer which are enjoyed by the birds. While the glossy green leaves will fall in the colder parts of its range then re-appear after the flowers, here in Victoria BC it tends to be semi- to fully evergreen, holding on to some or all of its leaves right through the winter. Winter Honeysuckle is said to make an effective informal hedge.

Fun Fact: One of the common names listed for this plant is “Kiss-Me-at-the-Gate.” I thought that was kind of cool.

Cheers,

John