Description

This ornate vine is a member of the honeysuckle family, Caprifoliaceae, which in California includes the Lonicera (seven species) and the snowberries, symphoricarpos (four species). The genus Lonicera includes a few rounded shrubs, with the balance climbing vines such as the orange honeysuckle. The plant naturally grows in northwestern California up into British Columbia. This vine will emerge from winter dormancy with numerous twining branches that will climb into whatever surrounds them. Year over year the number of branches will increase as the root system develops. The intricate orange honeysuckle flowers hang from the vines in early summer, illuminating a shady corner of the garden. Translucent berries of red or orange follow. Orange honeysuckle is best grown in bright shade with regular water.