lonicera henryi evergreen honeysuckle - Gardening
Honeysuckles are arching shrubs or twining vines in the genus Lonicera (/ lɒˈnɪsərə / [2]) of the family Caprifoliaceae. Trumpet honeysuckle is a vigorous, twining, perennial vine in the honeysuckle family (Caprifoliaceae) that is native to the eastern United States, including North Carolina. The species epithet is Latin for "evergreen," and indeed the species is evergreen in the warm winter climates of the Deep South.
Understanding the Context
Lonicera caerulea (Honeyberry or Blue-berried Honeysuckle): Native to the Northern Hemisphere, this honeysuckle is grown more for its blue, edible berries than for its small, fragrant flowers. Not all honeysuckle berries are safe to consume, but Lonicera caerulea has edible berries that research studies show to have powerful and impressive health properties. For starters, they are very high in disease-fighting antioxidants. Most Lonicera are twining or climbing plants but the genus does contain a large number of shrubs.
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Key Insights
Although the flowers of the shrubby honeysuckles are often highly scented, they are paltry compared to the flamboyant flowers of the climbing species. Lonicera sempervirens, commonly called trumpet honeysuckle, is a vigorous, deciduous, twining vine which typically grows 10-15' (less frequently to 20') and is one of the showiest of the vining honeysuckles. Lonicera’s beauty is genuinely captivating. Its name, “honeysuckle,” reflects the sweet nectar within its blossoms, which often release a delightful fragrance. This plant family encompasses a variety of species and hybrids, each with its own unique charm.