Contents
Description
Lonicera Crassifolia, also known as the Creeping Honeysuckle, is a low-growing shrub native to North America. It belongs to the Caprifoliaceae family and is a popular choice for gardeners due to its attractive foliage and fragrant flowers. The plant can grow up to 3 feet in height and 6 feet in width, making it an excellent ground cover. The leaves of Lonicera Crassifolia are glossy and dark green with a leathery texture. The flowers are tubular and range in color from white to pink. They bloom in late spring and early summer and are highly fragrant, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus | Lonicera |
Appearance
Lonicera Crassifolia is a low-growing shrub with glossy, dark green leaves that have a leathery texture. The plant can grow up to 3 feet in height and 6 feet in width, making it an excellent ground cover. The flowers of Lonicera Crassifolia are tubular and range in color from white to pink. They bloom in late spring and early summer and are highly fragrant, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies. The fruit of the plant is a red or orange berry that is not commonly produced.
Care Guide
Lonicera Crassifolia is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy:- Water: Lonicera Crassifolia prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and less frequently during the winter.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.- Soil: Lonicera Crassifolia prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade but can also tolerate full sun.- Hardiness Zones: Lonicera Crassifolia is hardy in zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lonicera Crassifolia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to be aware of:- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent this, avoid overhead watering and ensure proper air circulation around the plant.- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap out of the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. To control aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap.- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. To control spider mites, spray the plant with a fine mist of water to dislodge them.
Habitat
Lonicera Crassifolia is native to North America and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and rocky slopes. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lonicera Crassifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lonicera Crassifolia can be grown in containers. However, make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the roots and that the soil is well-drained.
Q: When is the best time to prune Lonicera Crassifolia?
A: The best time to prune Lonicera Crassifolia is in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: How often does Lonicera Crassifolia need to be fertilized?
A: Lonicera Crassifolia only needs to be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Q: Is Lonicera Crassifolia deer-resistant?
A: No, Lonicera Crassifolia is not deer-resistant.
Related Plants
– Lonicera sempervirens (Coral Honeysuckle)- Lonicera japonica (Japanese Honeysuckle)- Lonicera periclymenum (Common Honeysuckle)- Lonicera fragrantissima (Winter Honeysuckle)
References
– “Lonicera crassifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 November 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=283411&isprofile=0&.- “Lonicera crassifolia.” Plant Database. Accessed 22 November 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LOCR6.
