Lonicera x tellmanniana
Tellmann’s Honeysuckle
Position
- Prefers full sun or partial shade
- Ideal for a south-west facing position
- Should be sheltered from strong winds
- Roots enjoy cool conditions while the stems reach for sunlight
Hardiness
- Hardy down to -15°C to -10°C (5°F to 14°F)
Soil Type
- Thrives in moist but well-drained soil
- Suitable for chalk, clay, loam, or sandy soils
Soil PH
- Adaptable to acid, alkaline, or neutral soils
Height
- Reaches a height of 2.5-4 metres (8-13 feet)
- Takes about 5-10 years to reach its ultimate size
Seasons of Interest
- Flowers in late spring and summer
- Features orange-red flowers, often with a red tint
- Dark green leaves are present, which fall in autumn
- No notable autumn colour display
Additional Notes
- Less fragrant compared to common honeysuckle
- Excellent for covering walls and fences
- Regular pruning after flowering helps maintain shape; remove about one-third of flowering shoots
- A layer of mulch in early spring aids moisture retention
- Can be successfully grown in containers
- Recognised for its garden merit
- Fruit is ornamental but not edible
- May require protection from pests like aphids
The Ultimate Guide to Growing Lonicera x tellmanniana: A Stunning Climber for Your Garden
Lonicera x tellmanniana, also known as Tellmann’s honeysuckle, is a striking climber that adds vibrant colour and fragrance to any garden. This deciduous honeysuckle produces beautiful orange flowers that make it a standout choice for gardeners looking to add a splash of colour and attract wildlife. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this comprehensive guide will help you understand everything you need to know about growing Lonicera x tellmanniana.
What is Lonicera x tellmanniana?
Lonicera x Tellmanniana is a hybrid honeysuckle known for its vibrant orange flowers and vigorous growth. This climber is a cross between Lonicera americana and Lonicera sempervirens, combining the best traits of both parents. It’s a deciduous climber, meaning it loses its leaves in autumn and regrows them in spring. The flowers are tubular and orange, measuring about 5cm long, and they bloom from late spring to early summer.
Why Grow Lonicera x tellmanniana?
This honeysuckle is not only beautiful but also highly beneficial for your garden. Its fragrant flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, and the berries provide food for birds. The plant’s vigorous growth makes it an excellent choice for covering walls, fences, or pergolas, adding vertical interest to your garden. Plus, it’s relatively easy to care for, making it a great option for both novice and experienced gardeners.
How to Plant Lonicera x tellmanniana
Choosing the Right Location
Lonicera x tellmanniana thrives in full sun or partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. When choosing a location, consider where the plant will have room to climb. A south-west facing wall or fence is ideal, as it provides plenty of sunlight and support.
Preparing the Soil
Before planting, prepare the soil by adding plenty of well-rotted compost or manure. This will help improve drainage and provide essential nutrients for the plant. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and just as deep as the 3-litre pot your plant arrived in. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the base of the plant is level with the surrounding soil.
Planting Tips
Water the plant thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil around the roots. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds. If you’re planting near a wall or fence, use a bamboo cane or trellis to provide initial support until the plant establishes itself.
How to Care for Lonicera x tellmanniana
Watering and Feeding
Lonicera x tellmanniana requires regular watering, especially during its first growing season. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall. Once established, the plant is quite drought-tolerant, so you can reduce watering. There’s no need to use fertiliser if you’ve added compost or manure.
Pruning and Maintenance
Regular pruning helps maintain the plant’s shape and encourages new growth. After flowering, remove a third of the older stems to promote fresh growth. This also helps prevent the plant from becoming too dense and leggy.
Supporting Growth
As Lonicera x tellmanniana grows, it will need support. Use twine or garden ties to secure the stems to a trellis or fence. This helps prevent the plant from becoming unruly and ensures it grows in the desired direction.
What Soil Is Best for Lonicera x tellmanniana?
Lonicera x tellmanniana prefers well-drained soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soil, as long as they are well-drained. The ideal soil pH is neutral to slightly alkaline, around 6.0 to 8.0. Adding compost or manure can improve soil structure and fertility.
How to Prune Lonicera x tellmanniana
Pruning is essential for maintaining the health and appearance of Lonicera x tellmanniana. The best time to prune is after flowering, which typically occurs in late spring and early summer. Remove a third of the older stems to encourage new growth and maintain a tidy shape. Regular pruning also helps prevent the plant from becoming too dense, which can lead to pest and disease issues.
Where to Buy Lonicera x tellmanniana
You can buy Lonicera x tellmanniana from various nurseries and online retailers such as Swift Plants. Look for established plants in 3-litre pots, as these will have a strong root system and be ready to plant immediately. When selecting a plant, check for healthy foliage and robust stems. Avoid plants with signs of disease or damage.
How to Use Lonicera x tellmanniana in Your Garden
Lonicera x tellmanniana is a versatile plant that can be used in various garden designs. It’s particularly well-suited to cottage gardens, where its vibrant flowers and vigorous growth add a touch of charm. You can also use it to cover walls or fences, creating a living screen that provides privacy and beauty.
Common Problems and Solutions
While Lonicera x tellmanniana is generally trouble-free, it can occasionally suffer from pests or diseases. Keep an eye out for aphids, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or a strong jet of water. Powdery mildew can also affect the plant in dry conditions, so ensure it has enough moisture.
Summary
- Lonicera x tellmanniana is a vibrant, fragrant climber perfect for adding colour and vertical interest to your garden.
- It prefers full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
- Regular pruning after flowering helps maintain shape and encourage new growth.
- The plant attracts pollinators and birds, making it a valuable addition to wildlife-friendly gardens.
- You can buy Lonicera x tellmanniana from nurseries and online retailers, looking for healthy, established plants in 3-litre pots.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to grow and care for Lonicera x tellmanniana successfully, enjoying its beautiful flowers and fragrance for years to come.
For more information on climbing plants for your garden please click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Lonicera × tellmanniana?
A: Lonicera × tellmanniana, commonly known as the honeysuckle climber, is a vigorous, evergreen shrub that produces beautiful clusters of tubular orange flowers, typically blooming in late spring and summer.
Q: How tall does Lonicera × tellmanniana grow?
A: This climbing honeysuckle can reach a height of about 5 metres, making it a great choice for covering fences, trellises, or walls.
Q: What type of soil does Lonicera × tellmanniana prefer?
A: It thrives in well-drained soil and can adapt to various soil pH levels, but a slightly acidic to neutral soil is ideal for the best growth.
Q: Does Lonicera × tellmanniana need full sun or partial shade?
A: This honeysuckle loves full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. For the best flowering, plant it in a spot that gets plenty of sunlight, preferably on a south-west facing wall.
Q: When is the best time to plant Lonicera × tellmanniana?
A: The ideal time to plant this climbing honeysuckle is in the spring or autumn when the weather is mild, allowing the roots to establish before the heat of summer or the chill of winter.
Q: Are the flowers of Lonicera × tellmanniana scented?
A: No, the flowers of Lonicera × tellmanniana have little to no scent, making them a great choice for those who prefer a more unscented garden.
Q: How do I care for my Lonicera × tellmanniana?
A: Caring for this shrub involves ensuring it has well-drained soil, watering it during dry spells, and occasionally pruning to encourage healthy growth and flowering. Adding well-rotted compost in spring can also help boost its vigour.
Q: Can I grow Lonicera × tellmanniana in a pot?
A: Absolutely! You can grow Lonicera × tellmanniana in a pot, ideally a 3 litre or 5 litre pot, but keep in mind it will need regular watering and feeding to thrive in a container.
Q: Where should I place Lonicera × tellmanniana in my garden?
A: For the best visual impact and scent, consider planting this climbing honeysuckle near a seating area or in a cottage garden setting where you can enjoy its beauty and fragrance