Utah Honeysuckle
Lonicera utahensisfam. Caprifoliaceae
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Pl. 0CC7 — Lonicera utahensis
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IOverview
Overview
Utah Honeysuckle (Lonicera utahensis) is a shrub native to the western United States and Canada, including regions such as Alberta, Arizona, British Columbia, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in USDA zones 4-8 and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. Utah Honeysuckle is known for its edible fruit, which can be enjoyed fresh or dried. The fruit is often picked when ripe and relished for its sweet flavor, making it a valuable resource for both wildlife and humans. The plant features small, tubular yellow flowers that attract pollinators such as hummingbirds and bees. While the fruit is edible, it is not recommended for medicinal use.
Quick answers
What is Utah Honeysuckle?
Utah Honeysuckle (Lonicera utahensis) is a shrub native to the western United States and Canada, including regions such as Alberta, Arizona, British Columbia, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Utah Honeysuckle thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-8 and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. This shrub is native to a range including Alberta, Arizona, British Columbia, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. Propagate through cuttings or seeds. The fruit is edible. Soil pH should be maintained between 6 and 8 for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
1.5 m tall
Soil pH
6–8
For first-time growers
How to grow Utah Honeysuckle for the first time
7steps
Start with Utah Honeysuckle as a simple, low-maintenance shrub for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Utah Honeysuckle plants or seeds, gardening gloves, trowel, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining; amend with compost if necessary. For containers, use a pot at least 15 cm deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants in the garden or sow seeds directly where they will grow. Cover seeds lightly and keep moist.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun, regular watering, and occasional pruning to maintain shape. Mulch around the base to retain moisture.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts to encourage healthy branching and fruit production.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of the Utah Honeysuckle can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It is often picked when ripe and enjoyed fresh for its sweet flavor. The fruits can also be dried for later use. Skip the detailed recipes; focus on these simple uses instead.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
11 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
11 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 11 native
Broader regions
native:Alberta, Arizona, British Columbia, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming
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
Native to
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