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Description
Lonicera Japonica Purpurea, commonly known as Purple-leaf Honeysuckle, is a deciduous climbing vine that’s native to Japan and Korea. The plant is known for its stunning purple leaves, which turn green as they mature. It produces fragrant flowers that are white or yellow in color and bloom in late spring and early summer. The plant is popular among gardeners due to its attractive foliage and ability to attract wildlife.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus | Lonicera |
Appearance
The Purple-leaf Honeysuckle has striking purple leaves that are oval-shaped and about 2-4 inches long. The leaves turn green as they mature but retain a purple tinge on the undersides. The plant produces fragrant flowers that are white or yellow in color and bloom in late spring and early summer. The flowers give way to small, red berries that are loved by birds. The plant can grow up to 15-20 feet in height and spread up to 6-10 feet, making it a great choice for covering walls, trellises, or fences.
Care Guide
- Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often if the soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can promote leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
- Soil: The plant prefers a well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types but performs best in slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate shade but may produce fewer flowers and more foliage.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Purple-leaf Honeysuckle is generally pest and disease-resistant but may be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Regular monitoring and proper care can help prevent these issues. If pest or disease problems arise, treat the plant with insecticides or fungicides as needed.
Habitat
The Purple-leaf Honeysuckle is native to Japan and Korea and is commonly found growing in forests and along riverbanks. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures and humidity levels.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lonicera Japonica Purpurea an invasive species?
A: Yes, it can be invasive in some areas, so it’s important to check with your local extension office before planting it.Q: How often should I prune my Purple-leaf Honeysuckle?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged branches and trim back any excessive growth to maintain the desired shape.Q: Can I grow Lonicera Japonica Purpurea in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow the plant in a container, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system. Use a well-draining potting mix and water the plant regularly.Q: How do I propagate Lonicera Japonica Purpurea?
A: You can propagate the plant through stem cuttings taken in early summer or by layering in late winter or early spring.
Related Plants
- Lonicera japonica
- Lonicera sempervirens
- Lonicera periclymenum
- Lonicera ciliosa
References
- “Lonicera japonica ‘Purpurea’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279372.
- “Lonicera Japonica Purpurea.” Gardening Know How. Accessed July 22, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/vines/honeysuckle/purple-leaf-honeysuckle.htm.
- “Lonicera Japonica Purpurea.” Plant Finder. Accessed July 22, 2021. https://www.plantfinder.com/plants/lonicera-japonica-purpurea-62055.
