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Description
Lonicera Involucrata, commonly known as the twinberry honeysuckle, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the honeysuckle family Caprifoliaceae. It is native to North America and can be found from Alaska to California, eastward to the Great Lakes region, and as far south as New Mexico. The shrub typically grows to about 6 feet tall with oval-shaped leaves that are dark green in color. The flowers are small, yellow, and funnel-shaped, and they bloom in early summer. The fruit of Lonicera Involucrata is a pair of bright red berries that are clustered together, hence the name twinberry honeysuckle.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus | Lonicera |
Appearance
Lonicera Involucrata has a dense, spreading growth habit and typically grows to about 6 feet tall and wide. The leaves are oval-shaped, measuring about 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. They are dark green in color and have a slightly hairy texture on the upper surface. The undersides of the leaves are lighter in color and have a downy texture. The flowers are small, measuring about 1/2 inch long, and are yellow in color. They bloom in early summer and are followed by a pair of bright red berries that are clustered together. The berries are about 1/4 inch in diameter and are edible, although they are not particularly flavorful.
Care Guide
Lonicera Involucrata is a hardy shrub that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your twinberry honeysuckle healthy:- Water: Lonicera Involucrata prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water your shrub regularly, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: Lonicera Involucrata does not require a lot of fertilizer, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring if you want to encourage growth.- Soil: Lonicera Involucrata prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils.- Sunlight: Lonicera Involucrata prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not flower as well in shady locations.- Hardiness Zones: Lonicera Involucrata is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lonicera Involucrata is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. If you notice this problem, you can treat it with a fungicide spray. The shrub can also be attacked by aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Lonicera Involucrata is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including moist woods, stream banks, and open fields. It is particularly well adapted to growing in wetlands and can tolerate periodic flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lonicera Involucrata deer-resistant?
A: No, Lonicera Involucrata is not typically deer-resistant.Q: Can I use the berries of Lonicera Involucrata for cooking?
A: Yes, the berries of Lonicera Involucrata are edible and can be used in cooking. However, they are not particularly flavorful.Q: How often should I water my Lonicera Involucrata?
A: Lonicera Involucrata prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water your shrub regularly, especially during dry spells.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Lonicera Involucrata?
A: Lonicera Involucrata is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 7.
Related Plants
– Lonicera caerulea- Lonicera ciliosa- Lonicera fragrantissima- Lonicera hispidula- Lonicera japonica
References
– “Lonicera involucrata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 March 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281125- “Lonicera involucrata.” Plant Database. Accessed 22 March 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Lonicera+involucrata
