Lonicera japonica 'Purpurea' - Caprifoglio con foglie porpora e fiori intensamente profumati

Lonicera japonica 'Purpurea', also known as Japanese honeysuckle 'Purpurea', is a cultivar of the species Lonicera japonica from the Caprifoliaceae family. This semi-evergreen climbing perennial is valued for its deep purple foliage and fragrant flowers, making it a popular choice for ornamental gardens, pergolas, fences, or containers. Native to East Asia, 'Purpurea' adds a colorful contrast to landscapes due to its distinctive leaves and abundant blooming.

Appearance of leaves and flowers

• Leaves: The leaves are ovate, 5-8 cm long, dark purple with smooth edges. They are arranged opposite on the stems and provide a dense, attractive background. The foliage is semi-persistent, partially shedding in harsh winters.
• Flowers: The flowers are tubular, 3-5 cm long, creamy white with a pinkish tint, grouped in pairs, blooming from May to July. They are strongly fragrant, with a sweet, floral scent, attracting bees and butterflies.

Growth characteristics

• Height and width: Reaches 4-6 meters in height and 2-3 meters in width, forming a vigorous climbing shrub with slender stems that cling to supports.
• Vigor: Fast-growing, with flexible stems that can cover large areas. It is more vigorous than other varieties but can become invasive in some regions.
• Type: Perennial plant, semi-evergreen in warm climates or deciduous in colder areas.

Growing conditions

• Exposure: Prefers full sun or partial shade for optimal flowering. Tolerates shade, but flowers are fewer.
• Soil: Grows in fertile, well-drained soils with neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0-7.0). Tolerates poor soils.
• Watering: Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soaked. Tolerant of moderate drought once established.
• Temperature: Hardy in zones 4-9 (down to -29°C), suitable for temperate climates, including Romania.

Care and resistance

• Resistance: Resistant to cold, drought, and urban pollution. May be affected by aphids or powdery mildew; inspect regularly and treat with organic methods.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring, once a year, if the soil is poor.
• Pruning: Prune in spring, removing dead or crossing branches to maintain shape. Tolerates heavy pruning for rejuvenation.
• Propagation: Propagated by stem cuttings or dividing clumps in spring.
• Warning: Stems may cause skin irritation. Leaves and stems are not toxic.

Usage

Lonicera japonica 'Purpurea' is ideal for ornamental gardens, pergolas, or fences. The purple foliage and fragrant flowers add contrast, blending well with other climbing plants or shrubs. They attract pollinators, contributing to biodiversity.

Origin

Lonicera japonica is native to East Asia. The cultivar Lonicera 'Purpurea' was selected for its colorful foliage and is popular in European horticulture.

Height including pot: approx. 30-40 cm
Pot diameter: 9 cm

*In the cold season, the plant is sold leafless and shortened to encourage branching.