Twinberry
Lonicera involucrata
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Pl. 4EA7 — Lonicera involucrata
Lonicera involucrataLonicera involucrataLonicera involucrataLonicera involucrataLonicera involucrataLonicera involucrataLonicera involucrataLonicera involucrataLonicera involucrataLonicera involucrataLonicera involucrataLonicera involucrataLonicera involucrataLonicera involucrata
IOverview
Overview
Twinberry (Lonicera involucrata) is a deciduous shrub native to the western and northwestern United States as well as parts of Canada. It thrives in moist environments with light to medium soil types and can tolerate heavy clay soils. Preferring full sun, twinberry grows up to 1.2 meters tall and is hardy from zones 4-8. Known for its edible fruit, which are often enjoyed by both wildlife and humans, this plant also has ornamental value due to its attractive white flowers. One distinctive feature of twinberry is the presence of two leafy bracts that encase the flower clusters, giving it a unique appearance.
Quick answers
What is Twinberry?
Twinberry (Lonicera involucrata) is a deciduous shrub native to the western and northwestern United States as well as parts of Canada. It thrives in moist environments with light to medium soil types and can tolerate heavy clay soils. Preferring full sun, twinberry grows up to 1.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Twinberry thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-8 and grows to a height of about 1.2 meters as a shrub. For propagation, twinberry can be grown from seeds or cuttings. The fruit, which is edible, ripens well in the native range of Alaska, Alberta, Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, and Manitoba. Ensure the soil pH ranges between 5.5 and 8 for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
1.2 m tall
Soil pH
5.5–8
For first-time growers
How to grow Twinberry for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, low-maintenance shrub that thrives in various conditions.
- 1
What you'll need
Twinberry plants or seeds, garden gloves, pruning shears.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Twinberry in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist and cool.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil drains well; amend with compost if necessary. For containers, use a mix of light, medium, and heavy soils.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from a nursery or sow seeds directly in the ground after danger of frost has passed.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist. Monitor for pests and diseases, treating if necessary.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure; prune annually to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth begins to encourage healthy fruiting. Remove any weak or diseased branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without amending, neglecting regular pruning, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The twinberry's fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Typically, the berries are enjoyed fresh but may also be dried for later use. Skip
Other uses:DisinfectantDyeHair
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
23 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
23 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 23 native
Americas1 region
native (1)United States
Broader regions
native:Alberta, Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, Manitoba, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Nunavut, Ontario, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Québec, Saskatchewan
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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