An impressive form that will produce a mass of large flower clusters throughout the summer. Their colour is rich and their scent powerful, and the bees will love them too. Later, red berries are held well into autumn. This is a top performer, but it is relatively compact, so it is ideal for smaller gardens or patio pots topped with an obelisk. Easy to grow and undemanding, it will tolerate light shade, however you will get more flowers in a sunnier spot.
How to care for Lonicera periclymenum Rhubarb and Custard:
Once established, trim back lanky stems after flowering and remove up to a third of the oldest stems. In early spring, apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted compost or manure around the base of the plant, avoiding the immediate crown.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
2m
Eventual spread:
1.5m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
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This climber is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.
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Humans/Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten