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Description
Lonicera Canadensis, commonly known as American fly honeysuckle, is a deciduous shrub native to North America. It belongs to the honeysuckle family, Caprifoliaceae, and is a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers for its fragrant flowers and attractive foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus | Lonicera |
Appearance
The American fly honeysuckle can reach a height of up to 6 feet and a spread of 4 feet. It has dark green oval-shaped leaves that are 1-2 inches long and turn a shade of reddish-purple in the fall. The flowers are tubular, yellow, and grow in pairs, with the upper pair being larger than the lower pair. The fruits are red berries that are 1/4 inch in diameter and appear in late summer.
Care Guide
The American fly honeysuckle is a low-maintenance shrub that is easy to care for. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade, but can also tolerate full sun. It is drought tolerant, but regular watering is recommended for optimal growth. Fertilize once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. This shrub is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The American fly honeysuckle is generally pest and disease-free, but can be susceptible to powdery mildew and leaf spot. Regularly inspecting the shrub for signs of pests or diseases and promptly treating any issues can help prevent them from becoming a problem.
Habitat
The American fly honeysuckle is commonly found in woodland areas, along stream banks, and in moist meadows. It is native to North America and can be found from the eastern United States to Manitoba, Canada.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my American fly honeysuckle?
A: This shrub is drought tolerant, but regular watering is recommended for optimal growth. Water deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the fall and winter.
Q: When is the best time to prune my American fly honeysuckle?
A: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and thin out any overcrowded growth to promote better air circulation.
Q: Can I propagate my American fly honeysuckle?
A: Yes, this shrub can be propagated by taking softwood cuttings in the early summer or hardwood cuttings in the fall. Plant the cuttings in well-draining soil and keep them moist until roots have formed.
Q: Is the American fly honeysuckle invasive?
A: No, this shrub is not considered invasive and is a great choice for native plant gardens.
Related Plants
- Lonicera sempervirens (Coral honeysuckle)
- Lonicera periclymenum (European honeysuckle)
- Lonicera tatarica (Tatarian honeysuckle)
References
- Dirr, Michael A. Dirr’s Hardy Trees and Shrubs: An Illustrated Encyclopedia. Timber Press, 2019.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. “Lonicera Canadensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c610.
- University of Connecticut Plant Database. “Lonicera Canadensis.” University of Connecticut, 2021, www.hort.uconn.edu/plants/l/loncan/loncan1.html.
