Honeysuckle was my introduction to the vine world. I told my boyfriend I wanted to attract hummingbirds into my yard, and he bought me some honeysuckle. I was enchanted with the name, but had no idea what to expect. I was delighted when a bunch of bright, unique blooms started to appear. Then, the hummingbirds came in droves. I noticed multiple visits daily. The second variety I purchased, I planted closer to my window so I could see these small creatures flit back and forth.

They are a perennial in Massachusetts, so I get to enjoy them year after year. They grow quickly, and love the heat. They are indestructible, and are truly built to last. The vines are very hardy and look lovely on a fence, trellis, or arbor. They can even be grown as ground cover and for soil erosion! I'm growing some in a container, and it has done very well over the last three years. They produce fruit in the fall, perfect for the birds. Below are fast facts for the Dropmore Scarlet variety.

Fast Facts

Light - Full Sun

Height - Climbs up to 12 feet

Zones - 4-10

Bloom Time - Late spring through mid-summer

Features - Fragrant, fast growing, attracts pollinators

Favorite Varieties: Dropmore Scarlet, Trumpet, Goldflame