Lonicera sempervirens is a native climbing honeysuckle with clusters of vibrant tubular red orange flowers that bloom from late spring into summer. Its twining growth habit adds vertical interest to fences, trellises, and arbors while providing an important nectar source for hummingbirds and other pollinators. Height & Spread: 8 - 15 ft x 3 - 6 ft Bloom Time: Late spring to summer Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade Soil Preference: Average to well drained soil Watering Needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established Deer Resistance: Deer resistant Native Status This species is native to the eastern and southeastern United States and is valued as a native alternative to invasive Asian honeysuckles. It provides important ecological benefits through its flowers, berries, and dense climbing growth. WILDLIFE & INSECTS Hummingbirds Highly attractive to hummingbirds which visit the tubular red orange flowers for nectar throughout the bloom season. Butterflies Provides nectar for butterflies including Swallowtails and Painted Ladies which visit the flowers during the warmer months. Birds Produces red berries that provide a seasonal food source for songbirds and other garden wildlife. Spacing & Landscape Use Spacing Recommendations Space 3 - 6 ft apart depending on whether it is being grown as a specimen vine or used to cover a larger structure. Landscape Placement Ideal for trellises, fences, arbors, and native plant gardens where its climbing habit, colorful blooms, and wildlife value can be appreciated. Companion Plants Clematis virginiana (Virgin's Bower) - Adds complementary white flowers and a second native climbing element for layered vertical interest. Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Weed) - Provides bright orange blooms and additional pollinator value in sunny native plantings. Amsonia hubrichtii (Arkansas Blue Star) - Offers fine textured foliage and soft blue flowers that contrast with the bold honeysuckle blooms. Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Creates a naturalistic grass layer that complements the vine’s upright structure. Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' (Black Eyed Susan) - Extends the summer color palette with long lasting golden flowers.
