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Lonicera nigra

black-berried honeysuckle

A deciduous shrub reaching 1.5m. It has green leaves and white turning pink flowers in pairs, in early summer. These are followed by black berries

Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer White Pink Green
Autumn Green Black
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Caprifoliaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy, Spreading branched
Potentially harmful
Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus

Lonicera can be deciduous and evergreen shrubs, or climbers with twining stems. The tubular or two-lipped flowers, often very fragrant, are followed by red or black berries

Name status

Correct

Plant range
C & S Europe

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in any well-drained soil in full or partial sun. See honeysuckle (shrubby) cultivation for further advice

Propagation

Propagate from hardwood cuttings, softwood cutttings or semi-ripe cutting at each time of year. Or propagate from seed (tree/shrub

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Banks and slopes
Pruning

Pruning group 2

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews

Get involved

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