Lonicera periclymenum Rhubarb and Custard

Honeysuckle

Growing Lonicera Periclymenum ‘Rhubarb and Custard’: A Complete Guide

This stunning variety of honeysuckle combines beautiful two-tone flowers with a compact growth habit, making it perfect for smaller gardens. Learn how to grow and maintain this fragrant climber for years of colourful displays.

What Makes ‘Rhubarb and Custard’ Special?

This relatively compact climbing deciduous shrub produces tubular flowers in shades of pink and creamy yellow. The blooms appear throughout summer in abundant clusters.

Unlike more vigorous honeysuckle varieties, this cultivar reaches only 2m x 1.5m, making it ideal for smaller gardens and suitable for pots.

How Should I Plant This Honeysuckle?

Choose a spot with moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Add well-rotted compost around the base during planting.

Install a trellis or wire support system before planting, as this climber needs something to twine around.

What’s The Best Way To Prune?

Regular pruning keeps this honeysuckle looking its best. Cut back one third of the previous year’s growth in winter or early spring.

For established plants, prune again after flowering to maintain the compact form and encourage new growth.

How Does It Perform Through The Seasons?

New foliage emerges in early spring, followed by strongly scented flowers throughout summer. The blooms eventually become berries in autumn.

The deciduous nature means leaves fall in autumn, but the structure provides winter interest.

What Growing Conditions Does It Need?

This honeysuckle climber grows best in sunnier positions but tolerates partial shade. Ensure good air circulation to prevent disease.

Apply mulch annually and maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.

Can I Grow It In Containers?

The compact size makes this variety suitable for large containers. Use a good quality compost and ensure adequate drainage.

Container-grown plants need regular watering and feeding during the growing season.

How Does It Attract Wildlife?

The tubular flowers attract bees and other pollinators throughout the flowering period. Birds enjoy the berries in autumn.

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

What Support Does It Need?

While not self-clinging, this honeysuckle readily twines around supports. Provide trellis, obelisk, or wire supports at planting time.

The maximum height of 2.5m means supports don’t need to be extremely tall.

How Do I Keep It Healthy?

Regular maintenance includes checking soil moisture levels and removing any dead or damaged growth. Watch for new shoots that might overgrow their space.

Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to support healthy growth and flowering.

Key Points to Remember:

• Compact size suits smaller gardens
• Plant in moist, well-drained soil
• Provide sturdy support structure
• Prune twice yearly
• Regular watering needed
• Attracts wildlife
• Suitable for containers
• Maximum height 2.5m
• Two-tone flowers
• Long flowering period

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Lonicera periclymenum ‘Rhubarb and Custard’?

A: It’s a stunning climbing honeysuckle known for its unique combination of deep purple flowers and a lovely custard-like scent. This deciduous climber is perfect for adding colour and fragrance to your garden!

Q: How tall can Lonicera periclymenum ‘Rhubarb and Custard’ grow?

A: This climbing plant can easily reach heights of up to 2.5 metres, making it great for covering walls or fences. It’s a fantastic addition if you’re looking to add some vertical interest to your garden!

Q: When should I prune my Lonicera periclymenum?

A: It’s best to prune your honeysuckle after flowering, which typically happens in summer. Pruning back hard helps promote healthy growth and encourages more blooming the following year!

Q: How do I care for my Lonicera periclymenum ‘Rhubarb and Custard’?

A: This shrub thrives in well-drained soil and loves a sunny spot. Regular watering and occasional feeding will keep it happy. Just make sure to check on it, especially during dry spells!

Q: Can I grow Lonicera periclymenum ‘Rhubarb and Custard’ in Northern Ireland?

A: Absolutely! It’s well-suited for the climate there. Just ensure it has enough support to climb and a nice sunny spot to bask in. It will thrive with a little TLC!

Q: What do the flowers of Lonicera periclymenum ‘Rhubarb and Custard’ look like?

A: The flowers are quite striking, borne in clusters throughout the summer. They start off as a deep purple, adding a pop of colour to your garden, and they smell amazing too!

Q: Will I get red berries from my Lonicera periclymenum ‘Rhubarb and Custard’?

A: Yes, you can expect to see red berries after flowering! They not only add visual interest but also attract birds to your garden, making it a lively space.

Q: How can I buy Lonicera periclymenum ‘Rhubarb and Custard’?

A: You can find it at your local garden centre or online. Many suppliers offer it in a 3-litre pot, and with options for next-day delivery, you can have it in your garden within 24 hours!

Q: Is Lonicera periclymenum ‘Rhubarb and Custard’ easy to grow?

A: Definitely! This climbing honeysuckle is relatively low-maintenance. As long as you provide it with the right conditions, you’ll enjoy its vibrant blooms and delightful scent with little fuss.