Lonicera periclymenum Belgica

Early Dutch Honeysuckle

Growing Early Dutch Honeysuckle (Lonicera periclymenum ‘Belgica’): Complete Guide

Early Dutch Honeysuckle combines vigorous climbing ability with sweetly scented flowers. This comprehensive guide helps you grow this beautiful climber successfully, whether you’re planting against a fence or creating a cottage garden feature.

What Makes Early Dutch Honeysuckle Special?

This deciduous climber produces masses of tubular flowers streaked red outside and white inside, turning yellow with age. The blooms appear from late spring through summer.

Its vigorous growth and spreading habit makes it perfect for covering fences and buildings, while taking up little ground space.

How Do I Plant Lonicera periclymenum ‘Belgica’?

Choose a spot in full sun or partial shade with free draining soil. Add well-rotted manure or compost to the planting hole.

Install a sturdy trellis or other support before planting, as this vigorous climber needs good support from the start.

What Growing Conditions Does It Need?

Early Dutch Honeysuckle tolerates full sun but performs best with afternoon shade in hot summers. It thrives in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter.

The plant adapts to most soil types but needs good drainage to prevent root problems.

How Do I Care For This Climbing Honeysuckle?

Regular watering helps establish young plants. Apply mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Prune after the first flush of flowers by removing a third of the flowering shoots to encourage a second flush.

When Will It Flower?

Expect the first blooms in late spring, with white flowers that turn deep yellow. The scent becomes strongest in evening hours.

Flowers continue through summer, followed by bright red berries in autumn that attract wildlife.

Can I Grow It With Other Climbers?

This honeysuckle pairs beautifully with clematis for extended seasonal interest. The combination creates stunning displays on pergolas or arch structures.

Consider the different flowering times when planning companion plantings.

What About Maintenance Through Seasons?

As a deciduous climber, it loses leaves in autumn. Cut back established plants during winter to maintain shape and encourage strong spring growth.

Regular checks of support structures help prevent damage during vigorous growth periods.

How Does It Fit Into Different Garden Styles?

Early Dutch Honeysuckle suits both formal and cottage garden settings. Its natural growth pattern works well on wall or fence boundaries.

The plant adds vertical interest and fragrance to any garden design.

What Wildlife Does It Attract?

The flowers attract butterflies and other pollinators. Birds enjoy the bright red fruits in September and October.

This makes it an excellent choice for wildlife-friendly gardens.

Key Points to Remember:

• Plant in well-drained soil
• Provide strong support structure
• Regular watering during establishment
• Prune after first flowering
• Grows well with clematis
• Attracts wildlife
• Evening fragrance
• Deciduous nature
• Suitable for most garden styles
• Benefits from afternoon shade

For more information on climbing plants for your garden please click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Lonicera periclymenum ‘Belgica’?

A: Lonicera periclymenum ‘Belgica’, commonly known as Early Dutch Honeysuckle, is a vigorous deciduous climber that features fragrant flowers. It’s perfect for twining around trellises or pergolas in your garden.

Q: How should I prune my Lonicera Belgica?

A: To keep your Lonicera Belgica looking fabulous, it’s best to prune it back after flowering. This helps maintain its shape and encourages healthy growth for the following season!

Q: What type of soil does Lonicera periclymenum ‘Belgica’ prefer?

A: This lovely shrub thrives in well-drained soil that’s rich in organic matter. Adding some well-rotted compost can work wonders for its growth!

Q: Is Lonicera Belgica suitable for a cottage garden?

A: Absolutely! Lonicera Belgica fits perfectly into a cottage garden vibe with its charming, fragrant flowers and lush foliage. Plus, it’s a fantastic climber for creating that romantic look!

Q: Can Lonicera periclymenum ‘Belgica’ attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it certainly can! The fragrant flowers of Lonicera Belgica are a big hit with pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it a fantastic addition to your wildlife garden.

Q: How long does it take for Lonicera Belgica to flower?

A: You can expect Lonicera Belgica to start blooming in early summer. The flowers are followed by ornamental red berries, which add even more interest to your garden!

Q: Where can I buy Lonicera periclymenum ‘Belgica’?

A: You can easily buy Lonicera periclymenum ‘Belgica’ at your local garden centre or online. Just search for “buy early Dutch honeysuckle Lonicera” to find the perfect plant!

Q: Is Lonicera Belgica an evergreen plant?

A: No, Lonicera Belgica is a deciduous shrub. This means it sheds its leaves in autumn, but don’t worry, it comes back beautifully in spring!

Q: What are the benefits of having Lonicera periclymenum ‘Belgica’ in my garden?

A: Besides its stunning fragrant flowers, Lonicera Belgica is easy to grow and perfect for covering walls or fences. Plus, its fruits are ornamental, adding more visual appeal to your garden!