Lonicera Korolkowii

Description

Lonicera Korolkowii is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the honeysuckle family (Caprifoliaceae). It is also known by its common names, such as Chinese honeysuckle and Korolkow’s honeysuckle. This plant is native to China, specifically in the provinces of Gansu, Ningxia, and Shaanxi. It can grow up to 2 meters in height and spread up to 2 meters in width. Lonicera Korolkowii is popular among gardeners and landscapers because of its fragrant yellow flowers that bloom in early spring.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Lonicera Korolkowii has an upright growth habit with arching branches. Its leaves are oval-shaped, opposite, and about 4-8 cm long. They are dark green and smooth on the upper surface and lighter green and hairy on the lower surface. The flowers are tubular and about 1.5-2 cm long. They are yellow and bloom in clusters of 2-5 in early spring. The fruit is a red or orange berry that is about 7-10 mm in diameter and contains several seeds.

Care Guide

• Water: Lonicera Korolkowii prefers moist soil. Water it regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears. Repeat every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
• Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.
• Sunlight: Lonicera Korolkowii prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will produce fewer flowers.
• Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Lonicera Korolkowii is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plant well-watered and fertilized, and prune out any infected or damaged branches.

Habitat

Lonicera Korolkowii is native to China, where it grows in mountainous areas, thickets, and forests. It can tolerate a wide range of soil and climatic conditions, from dry to moist and from cold to warm. In cultivation, it is often used as a specimen plant, hedge, or screen.

Question and Answer

1. What is the best time to prune Lonicera Korolkowii?
   The best time to prune Lonicera Korolkowii is in early spring, before new growth appears.
2. Can Lonicera Korolkowii be grown in containers?
   Yes, Lonicera Korolkowii can be grown in containers, as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
3. How often should I fertilize Lonicera Korolkowii?
   Fertilize Lonicera Korolkowii once every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
4. Is Lonicera Korolkowii deer-resistant?
   Yes, Lonicera Korolkowii is deer-resistant.

Related Plants

• Lonicera fragrantissima
• Lonicera nitida
• Lonicera periclymenum
• Lonicera sempervirens

References

• “Lonicera korolkowii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277590.
• “Lonicera korolkowii.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/12324/lonicera-korolkowii/details.
• “Lonicera Korolkowii.” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/1193/korolkow-honeysuckle/.