Lonicera ligustrina (boxleaf honeysuckle)

Leaf type: Ovate, linear (broad), lanceolate
Phyllotaxis: Opposite
Colour: Green, yellow-green
Life cycle: Perennial, evergreen

Leaf (upper side)

leaves Lonicera ligustrina

Lonicera ligustrina branches and leaves
Leaves and branches in spring.

Leaf (underside)

Lonicera ligustrina leaves undersides

Habitus & biology

Lonicera ligustrina grows flat or overhanging and reaches just about one metre in height or width. Several cultivars are available, differing in the size and colouring of the leaves and branches.

The ovate to lanceolate leaves can grow up to four centimetres long.

All parts of the plant are poisonous.

Lonicera ligustrina habitus
Habitus of Lonicera ligustrina after pruning in March.

Distribution & habitates

The natural distribution area is in China (source). In Central Europe and other regions, Lonicera ligustrina is used for planting in gardens, parks, embankments and dams.

Botany

Lonicera ligustrina belongs to the honeysuckle family (Caprifoliaceae) and is commonly known as boxleaf honeysuckle, box honeysuckle, box-leaved honeysuckle and Wilson’s honeysuckle.

Lonicera ligustrina flowers
A honey bee pollinates the flowers of Lonicera ligustrina.