Lonicera sempervirens 'Magnifica' is a vigorous twining vine that produces clusters of striking tubular red flowers with yellow interiors. A selection of the native trumpet honeysuckle, it is known for its dense flowering and robust growth making it a standout in vertical or fence plantings. Its semi evergreen foliage and high nectar production make it a vital contributor to wildlife gardens.
Height & Spread: 8 - 12 ft x 3 - 6 ft
Bloom Time: Late spring to summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Average to moist, well drained soils
Watering Needs: Moderate; more frequent in heat or drought
Deer Resistance: Moderately deer resistant; damage unlikely once established
Native Status
Lonicera sempervirens 'Magnifica' is a cultivar of the native trumpet honeysuckle, found naturally in the southeastern United States. As a selection of a native species, it retains the wildlife support and adaptability of its parent plant.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Hummingbirds
- Its long tubular flowers are highly attractive to Ruby Throated Hummingbirds especially in early morning and dusk feeding periods.
Butterflies
- Visited by Eastern Tiger Swallowtails and Red Admirals for nectar during peak summer bloom.
Bees
- Attracts carpenter bees and bumblebees which access nectar through the flowers narrow tube or by side perforation.
Birds
- Songbirds such as robins and thrashers feed on its berries in fall while also using the dense foliage for nesting cover.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Allow 3 - 6 ft between plants if growing along a fence or trellis to accommodate lateral growth.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for arbors, fences, pergolas, or as a vertical accent in native or pollinator focused gardens where its floral display can be appreciated at eye level.
Companion Plants
- Clematis virginiana (Virgin's Bower) - Intertwines well with Lonicera on shared supports, providing late season white blooms and seed heads.
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Zagreb' - Mounded yellow blooms provide a bright contrast at the base of vertical honeysuckle growth.
- Monarda didyma 'Jacob Cline' - Strong red tones and pollinator appeal reinforce Lonicera’s wildlife support in overlapping bloom periods.
- Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks' - Adds fall color and texture beneath the honeysuckle, attracting beneficial insects and butterflies.
- Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' - Reliable golden blooms and a tidy form make it a bold lower level companion to vertical plantings.