Lonicera periclymenum 'Serotina'
Lonicera periclymenum 'Serotina' is a vigorous late blooming deciduous honeysuckle valued for its intensely fragrant tubular flowers that open creamy white and mature to deep pink with hints of yellow. Blooming from midsummer into early fall, it brings strong vertical interest and a rich evening fragrance to trellises, fences, and arbors while attracting a wide range of garden wildlife.
Height & Spread: 10 - 20 ft x 5 - 8 ft
Bloom Time: Midsummer to early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist well drained soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture
Deer Resistance: Moderately deer resistant
Native Status
This cultivar is derived from European native honeysuckle species and is widely grown as an ornamental vine valued for fragrance, bloom longevity, and wildlife support.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Hummingbirds
- Highly attractive to hummingbirds which feed on the long tubular flowers throughout the extended bloom period.
Butterflies
- Draws a steady flow of butterflies including Swallowtails and other long tongued species that access the nectar rich blooms.
Bees
- Visited by bumblebees and native bees which forage on the fragrant flowers during peak bloom.
Birds
- Later season berries provide food for songbirds including thrushes and finches once flowering finishes.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 6 - 10 ft apart to allow strong vine development and airflow on structures.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for trellises, fences, pergolas, and arbors where its fragrance and seasonal color can be enjoyed at height.
Companion Plants
- Clematis viticella 'Etoile Violette' - Pairs well by intertwining through the honeysuckle to extend seasonal bloom interest.
- Hydrangea anomala petiolaris (Climbing Hydrangea) - Provides structural foliage contrast and long term coverage on walls and fences.
- Rosa 'New Dawn' - Adds soft romantic blooms that complement the fragrance and vertical habit.
- Parthenocissus quinquefolia (Virginia Creeper) - Introduces bold seasonal foliage color contrast in fall.
- Trachelospermum jasminoides (Star Jasmine) - Enhances fragrance layering and evergreen presence in milder climates.