Consulta Plantas

Care of the shrub Lonicera nitida or Box honeysuckle

The genus Lonicera, family Caprifoliaceae, comprises 100 species of shrubs and climbing plants native to the Northern Hemisphere. Some species are: Lonicera nitida, Lonicera japonica, Lonicera implexa, Lonicera etrusca, Lonicera periclymemum, Lonicera caprifolia, Lonicera sempervirens, Lonicera caerulea.

Common names: Box honeysuckle, Wilson's honeysuckle. This species is native to China.

Unlike other Lonicera this plant does not have ornamental flowers; it is prized for its evergreen foliage similar to that of the Buxus. They are rounded bushes that reach 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) in height. They have small, opposite, elliptical-pointed leaves. The flowers are scented but small. They bloom in spring.

They are used to form very dense hedges, in bushy groups, as isolated specimens, to cover slopes and in pots for patios and terraces.

They need a full sun or semi-shade exposure. They resist frost.

They are rustic plants that grow in normal garden soil that is well drained and contains organic matter.

Water moderately throughout the year waiting for the substrate to dry.

Prune in late winter to keep it compact.

They are quite resistant plants to the usual pests and diseases.

They propagate from seeds sown in autumn or by cuttings in summer in the greenhouse.

Images of the shrub Lonicera nitida or Box honeysuckle