Lonicera nitida
Box Honeysuckle
Description
This broadleaf evergreen shrub reaches 3-5' tall and wide. Tiny, dark green leaves may turn bronze to plum color in winter but it depends on cultivar. Fragrant white flowers are hidden in the leaves during springtime. This shrub does best in full to part sun with fertile, well-draining soil. Easily pruned after flowering period to shape like boxwood or just tip-prune to encourage more density. This attractive plant can be used as a hedge. Wonderful cultivars now available. Tolerant of ocean spray.
Plant Type
Broadleaf Evergreen, Shrub
Height Range
3-6'
Width Range
3-6'
Flower Color
White, Multi-Colored
Flower Season
Spring, Summer
Leaf Color
Bronze, Dark Green, Purple
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
Blue, Purple
Fruit Season
Fall
Sun
Full, Half
Water
Medium
Growth Rate
Fast
Soil Type
Loam
Soil Condition
Rich, Well-drained, Moist
Soil pH
Neutral
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
English Cottage, Formal, Seascape, Woodland
Accenting Features
Fragrance, Unusual Foliage
Seasonal Interest
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Shrub Border, Foundation, Parking Strip, Patio, Raised Planter, Walkways, With Rocks
Special Uses
Erosion Control, Hedge, Screen, Mass Planting
Attracts Wildlife
Birds
Water Saving Tip:
Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.