Amur Honeysuckle
Lonicera maackii · Deciduous Shrub/Small Tree, Invasive, Broadleaf
Plant Family
Caprifoliaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental (Formerly), Invasive Shrub
Variety / Cultivar
None (Wild Type)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 2-8; extremely hardy and adaptable to varied climates.
About This Tree
An upright, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub that can reach tree-like proportions. It features an arching growth habit, dense foliage, and prolific fragrant flowers that emerge white and turn yellow/cream with age.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, opposite arrangement; ovate to lanceolate shape with a long, pointed tip; 2-3 inches long; dark green color with smooth (entire) margins; no significant fall color (yellow-green).
Bark Characteristics
Gray-brown bark that becomes fissured and shaggy with age; stems are hollow (pith is tan/brown or hollow in older branches), which distinguishes it from native species.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to temperate Asia (China, Japan, Korea, Russia); highly invasive in North America.
Growing Season
Early leaf-out in spring (before natives); flowers in late spring (May-June); fruits in autumn; holds leaves late into winter.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to deep shade; adaptable to various moisture levels but prefers moist, well-drained soils; high drought tolerance once established.
Mature Size
6 to 20 feet tall with a spread of 10 to 15 feet; fast growth rate; lifespan of ~20-30 years.
Special Characteristics
Highly invasive; produces allelopathic chemicals that inhibit the growth of surrounding native plants; extremely difficult to eradicate once established; provides ornamental interest through flowers and red berries.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides nectar for bees and butterflies; birds eat the red berries and aid in seed dispersal, though the fruit is low-nutrient 'junk food' for migrating birds compared to native species; creates dense thickets that displace native biodiversity.