Lonicera periclymenum Graham Thomas - A Spectacular Scented Honeysuckle

Graham Thomas Honeysuckle

Lonicera periclymenum ‘Graham Thomas’: A Spectacular Scented Honeysuckle

‘Graham Thomas’ honeysuckle combines highly fragrant flowers with vigorous climbing ability. This guide explores how to grow this classic cottage garden plant, named after the renowned horticulturist Graham Stuart Thomas (1909-2003).

What Makes ‘Graham Thomas’ Special?

This deciduous climber produces tubular white flowers fading to creamy yellow from July to September. The fragrant blooms attract pollinators throughout the season.

The twining stems can reach heights of 7m, making it perfect for covering walls, pergolas, and trellis.

How Do I Plant This Honeysuckle?

Choose a spot in full sun or partial shade with moist, well-drained soil. Add organic mulch around the base after planting.

Install sturdy support structures like canes or trellis before planting, as the vigorous stems need something to twine around.

What Growing Conditions Does It Need?

Lonicera periclymenum ‘Graham Thomas’ thrives in most soil types but performs best in fertile, free-draining conditions. It tolerates both sunny and shady positions.

Regular watering helps establish young plants, especially during dry spells.

When Does It Flower?

Expect fragrant white flowers from early summer, gradually fading to buff-yellow. The long flowering period extends from July to September.

Red berries follow the flowers, providing autumn interest and food for hungry birds.

How Do I Maintain This Climber?

Prune after flowering by removing a third of the flowering shoots. This encourages new growth and maintains shape.

Watch for frost damage in early spring and remove affected stems.

Will It Work With Other Plants?

‘Graham Thomas’ pairs beautifully with other honeysuckles and climbing roses. Consider different flowering times when planning combinations.

The mid-green leaves provide an attractive backdrop for companion plants.

Is It Good for Wildlife?

This native honeysuckle attracts butterflies and bees with its fragrant flowers. Birds enjoy the red berries in autumn.

The dense growth also provides excellent shelter for wildlife.

How Fast Does It Grow?

As a vigorous climber, it can quickly cover fences and low walls. Expect significant growth each season.

Regular pruning helps control its spread and keeps it looking neat.

What About Winter Care?

This deciduous climber loses its leaves in autumn but provides interest throughout most of the year.

The bare stems need minimal winter maintenance, making it easy to grow.

Key Points to Remember:

• Plant in sun or partial shade
• Provide strong support structure
• Highly fragrant flowers
• Prune after flowering
• Attracts wildlife
• Perfect for pergolas and walls
• Combines well with roses
• Loses leaves in winter
• Red berries in autumn
• Reaches 7m height

Check out the RHS article here.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Honeysuckle Lonicera periclymenum ‘Graham Thomas’?

A: It’s a highly fragrant climbing plant, specifically a variety of honeysuckle, renowned for its stunning scented white flowers that fade to yellow. It’s perfect for adding beauty to your cottage garden or can also serve as a shrub against a wall or fence!

Q: How do I prune my Lonicera periclymenum ‘Graham Thomas’?

A: To keep your honeysuckle ‘Graham Thomas’ healthy and thriving, you should cut back established plants after flowering. This encourages new growth and helps maintain that fabulous fragrance you love!

Q: Where can I buy Honeysuckle Lonicera periclymenum ‘Graham Thomas’?

A: You can buy jasmine from various online retailers such as Swift Plants or local garden centres. Look for mature options in a 3 litre pot for a good start.

Q: Is Lonicera periclymenum ‘Graham Thomas’ evergreen?

A: No, this climber is actually deciduous, which means it will lose its leaves in winter. But don’t worry; it comes back stronger in spring with its vibrant green leaves and gorgeous flowers!

Q: What type of garden is best for planting Lonicera periclymenum ‘Graham Thomas’?

A: It fits perfectly in a cottage garden, but it can also work well in any garden that has a sunny spot. Plus, it scrambles nicely up walls or fences, creating a lovely arch of flowers.

Q: How large does Honeysuckle Lonicera periclymenum ‘Graham Thomas’ grow?

A: This climbing honeysuckle can reach heights of up to 5 metres! So if you’re looking for something to cover a tall wall or fence, this might just be the shrub for you.

Q: Does Lonicera periclymenum ‘Graham Thomas’ attract wildlife?

A: Definitely! Its fabulously fragrant flowers are a magnet for bees and butterflies, making it a perfect addition to any garden looking to attract pollinators.

Q: How do I care for my Honeysuckle ‘Graham Thomas’?

A: Aside from regular pruning, ensure your honeysuckle receives plenty of sunlight and water. It also prefers well-draining soil, so consider adding mycorrhizal fungi to help with nutrient absorption!

Q: What happens to the flowers of Lonicera periclymenum ‘Graham Thomas’ as they age?

A: The flowers start as a lovely pale white and gradually age to a beautiful yellow. This colour change adds even more interest to your garden throughout the blooming season!