Coral Honeysuckle

Lonicera sempervirens L.

lon-ISS-ehr-ah  sem-per-VIRR-ens

Caprifoliaceae

Explanation of name: Adam Lonitzer (1528-1586) was a German naturalist (DEH). Sempervirens means evergreen.

Natural range: Eastern and southern U.S.

Recognition: Climbing-twining vine having opposite (perfoliate near the inflorescence) leaves with glaucous undersides andwith  long, narrow, trumpet-shaped red or orangish  flowers

Landscape uses: Contrary to DEH, grows well in S. Florida. This climbing native vine fares well in sun or partial shade, bearing bright red or orangish (or yellow in ‘Sulphurea’) tubular flowers in spring; attracts hummingbirds. The small red fruits are bird food. Prefers rich soil (DEH, NE4). Possibly toxic with special concerns for livestock (NE4).