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Click for previous Image Image 1 of 2 Lonicera fragrantissima Fragrant Honeysuckle

Lonicera fragrantissima

Fragrant Honeysuckle

Plant Type:

DECIDUOUS SHRUBS

Lonicera fragrantissima – Walking from the Upper West Side on my way to a midtown clinet I stumbled upon January Jasmine in Central Park one morning in late January. I was stopped short by its heavenly fragrance. It took a moment to focus on the flowers from which the heady aroma originated. Small, white honeysuckle flowers, some with an infusion of pink leaned on the rail of a low bridge extending about 10 feet from the shrub planted on the north bank. Flowers, usually in pairs, sometimes more are in axillary arrangement - welcome magic and promise so early in the new year. Flowers still occur as leaves begin to unfold; matte to satin finished, rounded and attractive they turn yellow in autumn. Its rounded form comprised of arching stems would fit well in a mixed hedgerow, part of a screen or massed. Just be certain to place it where you can appreciate its wonderful scent at a time of the year when most plants are still winter napping. In the north it is completely deciduous but may be semi-evergreen farther south. This plant may be invasive in the deep south, certainly in Texas, but not here in the north. Fertile, draining to moist soil in a part to full sun exposure.


Height:

6-10 ft

Spread:

8-12 ft

Colors:

White

Characteristics and Attributes for Lonicera fragrantissima

Season of Interest (Flowering)

  • Winter / Spring

Season of Interest (Foliage)

  • Spring / Summer / Autumn

Interesting Bark

  • Exfoliating

Autumn Interest

  • Autumn Leaf Color

Nature Attraction

  • Deer Resistant
  • Butterflies
  • Honey Bees & Native Bees

Light

  • Full Sun
  • Mostly Sunny

Attributes

  • Shrub Border
  • Border
  • Hedge
  • Fragrant
  • Hedgerow
  • Massing
  • Screen

Growth Rate in the Garden

  • Moderately Fast

Soil

  • Draining
  • Fertile

Origins

  • China

Propagated By

  • Division