Lonicera etrusca, commonly known as Etruscan honeysuckle, is a deciduous perennial vine native to Mediterranean woodlands and scrub areas, as well as coastal regions in Southern Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. It has also become naturalized in parts of the Pacific Northwest of North America. Etruscan honeysuckle can grow up to 20 feet in length and features oval, blue-green leaves. From late spring to early summer, it produces dense spikes of fragrant flowers that range in color from light yellow to pale reddish-pink, which are highly attractive to pollinators. These are followed by bright red berries that can provide visual interest and serve as a food source for birds.

Etruscan honeysuckle is valued for its ornamental qualities, including its sweetly scented flowers and vibrant berries. It is often used in gardens for trellises, arbors, and fences, providing vertical interest and a lush backdrop. This vine prefers well-drained soil, thrives in full sun to part shade, and requires moderate watering. Notable cultivars include ’Donald Waterer’ and ’Superba,’ the latter of which has received the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit for its exceptional qualities. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and should be monitored for aphid infestations. Pruning may be necessary to maintain shape and encourage airflow to reduce disease risk.CC BY-SA 4.0