Information about Lonicera subspicata

1. Southern (Chaparral/Santa Barbara/San Diego) Honeysuckle – Lonicera
subspicata vars. denudata & subspicata (lon-ISS-er-uh sub-spy-KAY-tuh den-yew-DAY-tuh)
Family: Caprifoliaceae (Honeysuckle Family)
Native to: Western and central S. CA ; fairly common on dry chaparral slopes and in shaded woodlands.
Often seen growing on N-facing slopes.
Growth characteristics: woody perennial vine/shrub mature length: 3-8 ft. up to 20 ft.
An evergreen vine-like shrub that is somewhat woody at the base and generally climbs or reclines on
other shrubs. Well-spaced, paired leaves are oval/elliptical, leathery and evergreen.
Blooms/fruits: Blooms Apr-May. Flowers are cream-white, in clusters (whorls) along a flowering stem,
and look like common honeysuckles. Scented. In fall, brilliant edible red or yellow berries.
Uses in the garden: Nice as a ground cover in shaded areas, including under oaks. Fine in planters and
large pots. Trained along a wall or fence with support. Excellent for scent and habitat value.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native woody vines, particularly invasive non-native Honeysuckles.
Attracts: Excellent bird habitat: provides cover and nectar (hummingbirds; butterflies & bees) and seeds
for food.
Requirements:
Element Requirement
Sun Full sun with water; part- to full shade with no supplemental water
Soil Any texture; best in neutral pH’s
Water Can take moderate summer water, but is very drought tolerant once established
(see Sun)
Fertilizer Low; none needed
Other
Management: Prune to manage size/shape. Needs support to climb. Host for Phytophthora ramorum
(Sudden Oak Death).
Propagation: from seed: yes; may require soaking, cold treatment by cuttings: hard- or semi-
softwood in summer/fall.
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 1-3, 5, 6, 11-14, 20, 23, 24, 26 12/7/10
© Project SOUND

2. Lonicera subspicata
Southern honeysuckle