Lonicera periclymenum Serotina
Late Dutch Honeysuckle
Position
- Best in partial shade, though tolerates full sun
- Suitable for east, west, south, or north-facing aspects
- Can be grown in exposed or sheltered locations
Hardiness
- Fully hardy in UK climate
- Tolerates temperatures down to -20°C (-4°F)
Soil Type
- Adaptable to chalk, clay, loam, or sandy soils
- Requires moist but well-drained conditions
Soil PH
- Suits acid, alkaline, or neutral pH soils
Height
- Ultimate height: 4-8 metres within 5-10 years
- Spread: 1-1.5 metres
Seasons of Interest
- Flowering period: July to October
- Fragrant red-purple and yellow flowers
- Dark green oval leaves with whitish undersides
- Red berries in autumn
Additional Notes
- Excellent wildlife attractor for bees, butterflies, and birds
- Makes ideal companion for climbing roses
- Requires pruning after flowering – remove 1/3 of flowering shoots
- Apply spring mulch of well-rotted compost for best results
- Can be susceptible to mildew if poorly positioned
Growing Lonicera Periclymenum ‘Serotina’: Your Complete Guide to Late Dutch Honeysuckle
The Late Dutch Honeysuckle (Lonicera periclymenum ‘Serotina’) brings beauty and fragrance to gardens with its highly fragrant flowers and vigorous climbing habit. This comprehensive guide will help you grow and care for this classic cottage garden plant successfully.
What Makes Serotina Special?
Lonicera periclymenum ‘Serotina’ stands out for its large, fragrant creamy-white flowers streaked with dark red. This deciduous climber will quickly cover walls or fences, making it perfect for adding vertical interest to your garden.
How Do I Plant Late Dutch Honeysuckle?
Plant in moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part shade. This climber performs best when its roots stay cool while the foliage grows into sunlight. For optimal results, prepare the soil with organic matter before planting.
What Growing Conditions Does It Need?
‘Strawberries and Cream’ grows best in partial shade but tolerates full sun if the soil stays consistently moist. It thrives in moist but well-drained soil enriched with well-rotted manure or compost.
The plant adapts well to various garden situations and lends itself particularly well to patio pots.
What Growing Conditions Does Serotina Need?
‘Serotina’ adapts well to various soil types, including chalky, clay, and sandy soils. It thrives in dappled shade or full sun positions and can reach heights of up to 7m. The plant associates particularly well with climbing roses.
How Do I Care for This Plant?
Regular watering helps establish young plants, especially during dry spells. Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. The plant can be prone to mildew, so good air circulation is essential.
When Does Serotina Flower?
This variety flowers from July to September, producing tubular white flowers that mature to yellow. The blooms appear in abundance and provide a long season of interest, followed by red berries that attract birds.
How Should I Prune Late Dutch Honeysuckle?
Prune after flowering by removing about 2-3in of growth to maintain shape and encourage new blooms. Regular pruning helps prevent the plant from becoming too dense and keeps it within bounds.
Will It Attract Wildlife?
‘Serotina’ attracts bees, beneficial insects, birds, and butterflies. It provides excellent habitat value as a wildlife hedge and offers both nectar-rich flowers and seeds for birds.
Can I Grow It in Different Garden Styles?
This versatile climber suits both formal and informal gardens. It looks particularly striking growing through pergolas or arches and combines beautifully with clematis. As a classic cottage garden plant, it adds both height and scent to borders.
Are There Any Problems to Watch Out For?
The foliage and fruit are toxic to humans and some animals. Watch for aphids and powdery mildew, especially in dry conditions. Good air circulation and proper watering help prevent these issues.
Key Points to Remember:
- Plant in moist but well-drained soil
- Flowers from July to September with fragrant blooms
- Reaches heights of up to 7m
- Attracts beneficial wildlife
- Prune after flowering
- Grows well in full sun or partial shade
- Perfect companion for climbing roses
- Toxic foliage and berries
- Benefits from regular mulching
- Ideal for covering walls and fences
For more information on climbing plants for your garden please click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Lonicera periclymenum ‘Serotina’?
A: Lonicera periclymenum ‘Serotina’, also known as Late Dutch Honeysuckle, is a stunning deciduous honeysuckle climber that produces beautifully tubular flowers and offers a lovely scent. It’s perfect for adding charm to your cottage garden!
Q: How do I care for Lonicera periclymenum Serotina?
A: Caring for this shrub is quite easy! It prefers light shade but can tolerate full sun. Ensure the soil is well-drained, and it can handle dry conditions. Regular pruning by removing a third of the plant can help keep it healthy!
Q: When does Lonicera periclymenum Serotina bloom?
A: This beauty starts blooming from July to October, showcasing creamy-yellow flowers that are streaked with dark red-purple. They’re not just pretty; they also attract pollinators!
Q: Can I grow Lonicera periclymenum Serotina in a pot?
A: Absolutely! You can grow it in a pot or container. Just ensure it has enough space, and use a 3-litre pot for starters. It looks lovely scrambling over a trellis or as a wall shrub.
Q: What kind of soil does Lonicera periclymenum prefer?
A: This honeysuckle prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of soil pH levels. Just avoid overly moist soil, and it will thrive in your garden.
Q: Is Lonicera periclymenum Serotina suitable for a seating area?
A: Definitely! Its strong scent and beautiful flowers can create a lovely atmosphere around your seating area. Plus, it can provide a bit of privacy if you let it climb over a trellis!
Q: How do I buy Lonicera periclymenum Serotina?
A: You can easily buy Late Dutch Honeysuckle, Lonicera, from various garden centres or online retailers such as Swift Plants. Just make sure to look for healthy plants to ensure successful growth!
Q: Are the fruits of Lonicera periclymenum edible?
A: The bright red fruits of Lonicera periclymenum can be attractive, but they’re not commonly eaten and can be mildly toxic. It’s best to admire them rather than munch on them!
Q: Can I grow Lonicera periclymenum serotina alongside clematis?
A: Yes, you can! Lonicera periclymenum serotina pairs beautifully with clematis. Just make sure they have enough space to grow and don’t overcrowd each other on the trellis!