The Beauty and Benefits of Orange Honeysuckle Bush

Are you looking for a beautiful, low-maintenance plant to enhance your garden? Consider the orange honeysuckle bush. With its brilliant bursts of orange flowers and sweet fragrance, this bush is sure to impress. But its beauty is not just skin deep. The orange honeysuckle bush also offers numerous benefits, from attracting hummingbirds to supporting local wildlife. In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about growing and caring for this wonderful plant.

What is Orange Honeysuckle Bush?

Orange honeysuckle bush (Lonicera ciliosa) is a deciduous shrub that is native to western North America. It typically grows in moist areas such as forests, stream banks, and rocky slopes. The bush can reach up to 15 feet tall, though it is often smaller in cultivation. The leaves are oval-shaped and range from two to eight inches long. The flowers are tubular and range from yellow to bright orange. They bloom in late spring or early summer and are followed by small red berries that attract birds.

Why Choose Orange Honeysuckle Bush?

There are many reasons to choose orange honeysuckle bush for your garden. Here are just a few:

Beauty

The orange honeysuckle bush is a stunning addition to any garden. The bright orange flowers are eye-catching and provide a burst of color in the landscape. They also have a sweet scent that is pleasant to the nose.

Low Maintenance

Orange honeysuckle bush is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care once established. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in a variety of soil types.

Wildlife Attraction

The orange honeysuckle bush is a favorite of hummingbirds, who are attracted to the sweet nectar of its flowers. The berries that follow the flowers are also a food source for birds and other wildlife.

Growing Orange Honeysuckle Bush

Now that you know why orange honeysuckle bush is a great choice for your garden, let's take a look at how to grow and care for it.

Planting

Orange honeysuckle bush should be planted in well-draining soil in an area with full sun to partial shade. It can also tolerate some drought once established. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball and place the plant in the hole. Backfill the hole with soil and water thoroughly.

Watering

Water the newly planted bush regularly until it is established. After that, it can tolerate some drought but will do best with regular watering during dry spells.

Fertilizing

Orange honeysuckle bush does not require fertilization, but if you choose to fertilize, use a balanced fertilizer in the spring.

Pests and Diseases

Orange honeysuckle bush is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions. To prevent this, ensure good air circulation around the plant.

Uses for Orange Honeysuckle Bush

In addition to its beauty and wildlife benefits, orange honeysuckle bush has several uses.

Garden Plant

As we've already discussed, orange honeysuckle bush makes a beautiful addition to any garden.

Medicinal Uses

Some Native American tribes used the bark of the orange honeysuckle bush to treat coughs and other respiratory ailments.

Culinary Uses

The flowers of the orange honeysuckle bush can be used to make tea or added to salads for a pop of color and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can orange honeysuckle bush grow in shade?

Yes, orange honeysuckle bush can tolerate partial shade but will do best in full sun.

2. How tall does orange honeysuckle bush grow?

Orange honeysuckle bush can grow up to 15 feet tall, though it is often smaller in cultivation.

3. When do orange honeysuckle bush bloom?

Orange honeysuckle bush blooms in late spring or early summer.

4. What animals are attracted to orange honeysuckle bush?

Hummingbirds are attracted to the sweet nectar of the flowers, while birds are attracted to the berries that follow.

5. How often should I water my orange honeysuckle bush?

Water your newly planted bush regularly until it is established. After that, it can tolerate some drought but will do best with regular watering during dry spells.


In orange honeysuckle bush is a beautiful, low-maintenance plant that offers numerous benefits. From attracting hummingbirds to supporting local wildlife, this bush is sure to enhance your garden. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of orange honeysuckle bush year after year.