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Description
Lonicera Hispidula, also known as California Honeysuckle, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Caprifoliaceae family. It is native to western North America, including Alaska, British Columbia, Washington, California, and Arizona. This plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and has a spread of up to 6 feet. The flowers of the Lonicera Hispidula are tubular and come in various shades of pink, yellow, and red. They bloom in late spring and early summer, followed by blue-black berries that attract birds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus | Lonicera |
Appearance
Lonicera Hispidula has a sprawling growth habit with arching branches. The leaves are oval-shaped and have a bluish-green hue. They are approximately 1-3 inches long and 0.5-1.5 inches wide. The flowers are tubular and grow in clusters at the end of the branches. They may be pink, yellow, or red and have five lobes. The fruit of the Lonicera Hispidula is a blue-black berry that is approximately 0.25 inches in diameter.
Care Guide
Lonicera Hispidula prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but it prefers slightly acidic soil. This plant should be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilization is not necessary, but a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring if desired. Lonicera Hispidula is hardy to USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lonicera Hispidula is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew and leaf spot. These can be treated with fungicides, but prevention is the best method. Avoid overhead watering and ensure the plant has adequate airflow to prevent moisture buildup.
Habitat
Lonicera Hispidula is native to western North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and coniferous forests. It is often found growing along streambanks, in meadows, and on rocky slopes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lonicera Hispidula tolerant of drought conditions?
A: While Lonicera Hispidula prefers regular watering, it can tolerate drought conditions once established.
Q: Can Lonicera Hispidula be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lonicera Hispidula can be grown in containers but may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: When is the best time to prune Lonicera Hispidula?
A: Lonicera Hispidula should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Q: Does Lonicera Hispidula attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Lonicera Hispidula attracts hummingbirds and bees with its tubular flowers.
Related Plants
- Lonicera involucrata
- Lonicera ciliosa
- Lonicera utahensis
- Lonicera hispidula var. vacillans
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/shrub/lonhis/all.html
- https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-taxon=Lonicera+hispidula
- https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/2428/california-honeysuckle/
