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Description
Lonicera oblongifolia, commonly known as the native honeysuckle, is a deciduous shrub native to the eastern United States. It belongs to the Caprifoliaceae family and is a species of the Lonicera genus. The plant is known for its fragrant flowers and its ability to attract hummingbirds and butterflies. It grows up to a height of 6-10 feet and a width of 6-8 feet. The plant has a rounded shape and produces yellowish-green flowers that bloom from May to June. The fruit of the plant is a red berry that matures in late summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus | Lonicera |
Appearance
The Lonicera oblongifolia is a multi-stemmed shrub with a rounded shape. It has a moderate growth rate and can grow up to a height of 6-10 feet and a width of 6-8 feet. The plant has dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and up to 2 inches long. The leaves are arranged opposite each other on the stem. The plant produces yellowish-green flowers that bloom from May to June. The flowers are tubular and fragrant, and they attract hummingbirds and butterflies. The fruit of the plant is a red berry that matures in late summer.
Care Guide
The Lonicera oblongifolia is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to care for the plant:- Water: The plant requires moderate watering. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full to partial sunlight.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Lonicera oblongifolia is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Here are some tips to prevent and treat these common pests and diseases:- Aphids: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.- Spider mites: Spray the plant with water to dislodge spider mites. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control severe infestations.- Powdery mildew: Keep the plant well-ventilated and remove infected leaves. Use fungicides to treat severe infections.
Habitat
The Lonicera oblongifolia is native to the eastern United States and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and stream banks. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate full to partial sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Lonicera oblongifolia a good plant for attracting wildlife?
A: Yes, the plant is known for attracting hummingbirds and butterflies.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize the Lonicera oblongifolia?
A: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect the Lonicera oblongifolia?
A: The plant may be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Lonicera oblongifolia?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
Related Plants
– Lonicera sempervirens (Coral honeysuckle)- Lonicera fragrantissima (Winter honeysuckle)- Lonicera japonica (Japanese honeysuckle)- Lonicera periclymenum (European honeysuckle)
References
– “Lonicera oblongifolia – Native Honeysuckle” by Missouri Botanical Garden- “Lonicera oblongifolia” by Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center- “Lonicera oblongifolia” by University of Connecticut Plant Database
