Orange Honeysuckle
Lonicera ciliosafam. Caprifoliaceae
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Pl. 253E — Lonicera ciliosa
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IOverview
Overview
Orange Honeysuckle, scientifically known as Lonicera ciliosa, is a deciduous vine or shrub native to the western United States and British Columbia. It thrives in habitats ranging from moist areas to well-drained soils, making it adaptable but preferring light to partial shade. Known for its edible fruit and nectar, this plant can grow up to 10 meters tall. Its presence in gardens is both ornamental and beneficial as a food source for wildlife and pollinators. One distinctive feature of Orange Honeysuckle is its vibrant orange flowers that attract hummingbirds and other pollinators, contributing to its popularity among gardeners.
Quick answers
What is Orange Honeysuckle?
Orange Honeysuckle, scientifically known as Lonicera ciliosa, is a deciduous vine or shrub native to the western United States and British Columbia. It thrives in habitats ranging from moist areas to well-drained soils, making it adaptable but preferring light to partial shade.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Orange Honeysuckle thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-8 and can grow up to 10 meters tall as a vine or shrub. Propagate via cuttings or seeds. The fruit and nectar are edible.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Habit
Vine, Shrub
Mature size
10.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Orange Honeysuckle for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Orange Honeysuckle in a sunny spot and follow these simple steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Orange Honeysuckle plants or seeds, garden soil, mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Orange Honeysuckle in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5; prepare containers with light to medium soil.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants into your garden, spacing them about 3 meters apart for vines; sow seeds in early spring under mulch.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade, especially in hot climates; water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to maintain shape and encourage new growth; harvest flowers for nectar as needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting winter protection in colder zones.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitNectar
Edible uses: The Orange Honeysuckle's fruit and nectar are edible. The fruit can be eaten raw or used in jams and jellies. Nectar is often enjoyed fresh but can also be used to make syrups or infused into beverages. Both parts add a sweet flavor to various culinary applications.
Other uses:FiberHair
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
8 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
8 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 8 native
Broader regions
native:British Columbia, California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Idaho, Montana, Utah
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Caprifoliaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Caprifoliaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
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