Winter Honeysuckle

Lonicera fragrantissima

Caprifoliaceae · broadleaf deciduous shrub · introduced

Last updated April 25, 2026

Plant Profile

Size & Form

Height

6-10 ft

Spread

6-10 ft

Growth Rate

Fast

Site Requirements

Light

Full Sun to Part Shade

Soil Drainage

Well Drained, Adaptable

Soil pH

acidic to neutral

Water

Low to moderate

Drought Tolerance

Moderate to high

Hardiness

Zones 4a–8b

Ornamental Interest

Bloom Time

March to April

Origin

eastern China Caution: Lonicera fragrantissima

Powdery MildewHigh

Active Conidial Spread

AphidHigh

Peak Population & Dispersal

Diseases: Regionally Documented (3)

Multiple obligate biotrophic fungi (Erysiphales: Erysipha... Powdery Mildew Symptom category — not a single disease Root Rot Strawberry yellow edge virus (StYEV) Yellow Vein

Pests: Regionally Documented (1)

Aphidoidea Aphid

Data Maturity

Structured Multiple sources. Expert review underway.

Also Known As

Sweet-Breath-of-Sping January Jasmine

Plant Origin

Native Range

eastern China Caution: Lonicera fragrantissima, as well as several other \\\"bush honeysuckles\\\", is considered an invasive species of the forests of several southern states, in that area it is commonly known as Sweet-breath-of-sping and/or January jasmine

Climate Type

Humid subtropical

Puget Sound Fit

Excellent

Winter Honeysuckle evolved under warm humid summers and mild winters with year-round moisture, which aligns closely with our consistent moisture, mild temperatures, and naturally acidic soils, producing reliable performance without special siting.

Native range

Puget Sound

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