Contents
Description
Lonicera Periclymenum Belgica, also known as Belgian Honeysuckle, is a deciduous climbing plant that belongs to the Caprifoliaceae family. It is native to Europe and parts of Asia and is widely cultivated for its beautiful flowers and pleasant fragrance. The plant can grow up to 6 meters in length and produces tubular flowers that are pink on the outside and yellow-white on the inside. The flowers bloom from June to September and are followed by red berries.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus | Lonicera |
Appearance
Lonicera Periclymenum Belgica has long, slender stems that can climb up walls, trellises, and other structures. The leaves are oval-shaped, dark green, and arranged in pairs along the stem. The flowers are tubular and grow in clusters at the end of the stems. They are pink on the outside and yellow-white on the inside, with a sweet fragrance that attracts bees and butterflies. The plant produces red berries in the fall, which are poisonous if ingested.
Care Guide
Lonicera Periclymenum Belgica is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial to full sun, but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Lonicera Periclymenum Belgica can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lonicera Periclymenum Belgica is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but can occasionally be affected by:
- Aphids: These small, green insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause yellowing leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Prune affected parts of the plant and apply a fungicide if necessary.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and apply a fungicide.
Habitat
Lonicera Periclymenum Belgica grows in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, hedgerows, and gardens. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate both sun and shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lonicera Periclymenum Belgica toxic?
A: Yes, the plant’s berries are poisonous if ingested.
Q: Can Lonicera Periclymenum Belgica grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate its root system.
Q: How often should I prune Lonicera Periclymenum Belgica?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged wood and shape the plant as desired.
Q: Does Lonicera Periclymenum Belgica attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s sweet fragrance attracts bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Lonicera japonica
- Lonicera sempervirens
- Lonicera fragrantissima
References
- “Lonicera periclymenum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c330
- “Belgian Honeysuckle (Lonicera periclymenum ‘Belgica’).” Gardenia. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/lonicera-periclymenum-belgica-belgian-honeysuckle
- “Lonicera periclymenum Belgica.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/55157/Lonicera-periclymenum-Belgica/Details
