Description
Lonicera x brownii has an attractive, spreading growth habit with arching branches and clusters of fragrant, tubular pink to red flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. This hybrid plant is a cross between two North American native honeysuckle species, Lonicera hirsuta and Lonicera sempervirens. It was named after the American botanist Addison Brown, who collected the first known specimen in the late 1800s. Brown’s honeysuckle is known for its hardiness, adaptability, and ease of care. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Brown’s honeysuckle is a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers due to its attractive blooms and easy maintenance. Its nectar-rich flowers attract a range of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The plant’s berries, which are produced in the fall, are not edible for humans but are consumed by birds and other wildlife. It also makes a great addition to a wildlife garden or naturalized area.
Key Facts
- Common Name(s):Honeysuckle ‘Dropmore Scarlet’
- Hardiness:Fully hardy
- How big will I get? Lonicera x brownii ‘Dropmore Scarlet’ can grow to a height of 4m and a spread of 2m.
- Did You Know That:It is a hybrid cross between Lonicera hirsuta and Lonicera sempervirens, both of which are native to North America?
Plant Calendar
A rough guide to how this plant will change through the year.
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | June | July | Aug | Sept | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
Flowering Time | ||||||||||||
Foliage Colour |
J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
Care Guide
Soil Requirements
Lonicera x brownii ‘Dropmore Scarlet’ is a versatile plant and can cope with wet or drier soils, but prefers there to be decent drainage. This plant can grow in soil with a wide range of pH levels, it is not picky about the pH level of the soil.
Best Position
Lonicera x brownii ‘Dropmore Scarlet’ prefers a sheltered position and can cope with either full sun or partial shade.
Maintenance
Lonicera x brownii ‘Dropmore Scarlet’ is fairly low maintenance and doesn’t require any pruning. However it can be tidied up as much as necessary through the year, this is especially important if you are trying to keep it limited to a certain area.
Pest, Diseases and Wildlife
Lonicera x brownii ‘Dropmore Scarlet’ can have problems with aphids and thrips , it can be vulnerable to certain diseases such as powdery mildews and leaf spot. It is also known to attract bees, butterflies, birds and other pollinators.