Box Honeysuckle

(Lonicera ligustrina)

Box Honeysuckle (Lonicera ligustrina)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Lonicera ligustrina, commonly known as Box Honeysuckle, is an evergreen or semi-deciduous shrub native to forest margins, scrublands, and rocky slopes in Southeast Asia, including the Himalayas. It typically grows to a height of 5-8 feet (1.5-2.4 meters) and a width of 4-7 feet (1.2-2.1 meters). The plant has a bushy habit with dense, small, oval leaves and can spread to form thickets. The fragrant flowers are cream and white, appearing in late spring to early summer, and are followed by small, purple-black berries that are attractive to birds.

Box Honeysuckle is valued for its ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, making it a versatile choice for hedges, foundation plantings, and as a ground cover in urban and suburban landscapes. It is tolerant of pruning, which allows for shaping and size control. This shrub is relatively low-maintenance, requiring only moderate watering once established, and it adapts well to different soil types, though it prefers well-drained soils. It can be grown in full sun to part shade, with part shade being preferable in hotter climates to prevent leaf scorch.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 5-8 feet
  • Width: 4-7 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Cream, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen, Semi-Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Hedges, Hummingbird Garden, Rabbit Resistant, Salt Tolerant

Natural Habitat

Native to forest margins, scrublands, and rocky slopes in Southeast Asia, including the Himalayas

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: , Lonicera ligustrina, Lonicera buxifolia, Lonicera missionis, Lonicera wightianum, Caprifolium ligustrinum, Lonicera ligustrina subsp. ligustrina, Lonicera ligustrina var. ligustrina, Xylosteon ligustrinum, Xylosteon naisoca

GBIF Accepted Name: Lonicera ligustrina Wall.