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Hairy Honeysuckle

Lonicera hirsuta

Last reviewed: July 2026

Hairy Honeysuckle (Lonicera hirsuta)
Photo: Rob Routledge, Sault College, Bugwood.org / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

72"–120" H × 36"–72" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul

Native to

MA, MI, MN, NY and 3 more states

Pollinators

hummingbirds, bees, butterflies

Hairy honeysuckle is a native climbing vine that produces tubular orange-red flowers in summer. This deciduous vine can reach 6-10 feet tall and provides good coverage for trellises, fences, or arbors. Unlike invasive honeysuckle species, this native variety supports local wildlife while maintaining a manageable growth habit.

In an HOA neighborhood

Hairy Honeysuckle is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: foundation, mid zone.

  • Requires support structure like trellis or fence
  • Can look sparse when leafless in winter
  • May need annual pruning to control spread

Wildlife value

The tubular flowers are particularly attractive to hummingbirds and also support bees and butterflies. The vine provides nesting sites and cover for small birds.

Common questions

How much sun does Hairy Honeysuckle need?
Hairy Honeysuckle grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Hairy Honeysuckle bloom?
Hairy Honeysuckle blooms in June and July.
Where is Hairy Honeysuckle native?
Hairy Honeysuckle (Lonicera hirsuta) is native to MA, MI, MN, NY and 3 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Hairy Honeysuckle attract?
Hairy Honeysuckle draws hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.
Is Hairy Honeysuckle HOA-friendly?
Hairy Honeysuckle is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Hairy Honeysuckle? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz