Honeysuckle, a plant known for its fragrant flowers and climbing nature, does indeed grow across Florida. The state’s warm, humid climate and diverse ecosystems provide suitable habitats for these vining plants. However, the honeysuckle found in Florida is a mix of native and non-native species, each with a distinct presence and impact on the local environment. Understanding these differences is helpful for gardeners and homeowners seeking to enhance their landscapes while protecting Florida’s natural areas.
Native and Non-Native Honeysuckle Species in Florida
The honeysuckle vines commonly encountered in Florida fall into two main categories: the native species and the non-native type. The primary native variety is Coral Honeysuckle, also known as Trumpet Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens), which is found throughout the Panhandle, North, and Central Florida. This vine features showy, tubular flowers, typically scarlet red to reddish-orange with yellowish throats.
Coral Honeysuckle is a robust, twining woody vine that can grow up to 15 feet long, remaining mostly evergreen in Central and South Florida. Its presence supports the local ecosystem, attracting hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees with its nectar, and providing red berries for songbirds in the fall. In contrast, the most widespread non-native species is Japanese Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), which was introduced for ornamental use and erosion control in the early 1800s. This invasive species is now documented across the state.
Understanding the Invasive Status of Japanese Honeysuckle
Japanese Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) poses a serious threat to Florida’s natural areas and is classified as a Category 1 invasive species by the Florida Invasive Species Council. This designation indicates that it is altering native plant communities by displacing indigenous species. The vine grows rapidly and aggressively, sending out runners that root easily, allowing it to spread across a wide range of habitats.
The ecological damage occurs as the vine twines around and over native vegetation, including shrubs and small trees. It forms dense thickets that can smother and kill the plants beneath them by blocking out sunlight. The sheer weight of the honeysuckle can also lead to the physical collapse of supporting trees and shrubs.
Once established, Japanese Honeysuckle is difficult to eradicate because it reproduces both by seeds, which are dispersed by birds, and through its extensive rooting system. This aggressive colonization prevents the germination and growth of native understory species, reducing biodiversity. Landscape professionals strongly advise against planting this variety due to its destructive potential.
Growing Conditions and Identification of Florida Varieties
For those interested in cultivating honeysuckle, the native Coral Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens) is the recommended choice. This vine is easily identified by its unique leaf structure: the oval leaves are dark green on top with silvery undersides and are oppositely arranged. The pair closest to the flower base often clasps the stem.
Unlike the invasive type, which has white or yellowish flowers, the native species features bright, tubular red or orange blossoms. Coral Honeysuckle performs best when planted in full sun, which encourages the most abundant flowering, though it can tolerate moderate shade. It is adaptable to a variety of well-drained soil types, including sandy, loam, or clay, and tolerates a soil pH from acidic to slightly alkaline.
The vine grows well on trellises, arbors, or fences, where its twining habit can be supported, reaching lengths of up to 15 feet. Once established, this native species is relatively low-maintenance, requiring only occasional pruning to maintain form. Choosing the native Coral Honeysuckle supports local wildlife, such as the Spring Azure and Snowberry Clearwing butterflies, for which it is a larval host.