Honeysuckle
British native · Climber
Honeysuckle, Lonicera periclymenum, is the British native climbing honeysuckle, winding through hedges and trees with creamy white flowers that age yellow. Its sweet evening scent is a hallmark of summer. This vigorous but manageable climber brings flowers, foliage and later berries to a fence, arch or established hedge.
Why grow it
Native Honeysuckle is a superb way to add vertical wildlife value without sacrificing garden space. Its evening flowers support nocturnal visitors, its leafy stems create cover, and its berries help extend the seasonal food supply for birds. It is an RHS Plants for Pollinators plant and suits an informal, layered garden particularly well.
How to grow it
Plant in sun or partial shade in moist, well-drained soil enriched with garden compost or leaf mould. Keep roots cool by mulching the base, while allowing the upper growth to reach light. Set plants 60 to 90 cm apart from a sturdy support, hedge or trellis and tie in young shoots until they begin to twine. Water regularly in the first two summers. Prune lightly after flowering to control size and remove tangled or damaged growth.
Wildlife value
The fragrant tubular flowers are especially important for night-flying moths, including hawk-moths, and are also visited by bumblebees. Its berries are taken by birds such as blackbirds and thrushes later in the year. Dense growth gives small birds a sheltered place to perch and may provide cover for nesting where safely positioned.
Tips
Choose the native species Lonicera periclymenum rather than a non-native ornamental hybrid if wildlife is the priority. Keep it away from fragile structures and train it early. Buy UK native-origin plants from reputable suppliers and do not take cuttings or plants from wild hedgerows.
Growing Honeysuckle: frequently asked questions
Why grow honeysuckle in a UK garden?
Native Honeysuckle is a superb way to add vertical wildlife value without sacrificing garden space.
How do I grow honeysuckle?
Plant in sun or partial shade in moist, well-drained soil enriched with garden compost or leaf mould.
What wildlife does honeysuckle support?
The fragrant tubular flowers are especially important for night-flying moths, including hawk-moths, and are also visited by bumblebees.
Grow native plants of UK origin from reputable suppliers, never collected from the wild. Page updated 18 Sep 2026.