Smooth Honeysuckle
Lonicera dioica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
60"–240" H × 36"–120" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AR, CT, GA, IA and 27 more states
Pollinators
hummingbirds, bees, butterflies
Smooth honeysuckle is a native climbing vine that produces tubular yellow to reddish flowers in late spring and early summer. Unlike its invasive cousins, this North American native stays well-behaved and provides excellent wildlife habitat. The vine climbs by twining and can cover fences, trellises, or arbors with attractive oval leaves.
In an HOA neighborhood
Smooth Honeysuckle is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: backyard only, mid zone.
- Requires support structure to look intentional
- Can appear messy without regular pruning
- May be confused with invasive honeysuckle varieties
Wildlife value
This native honeysuckle is a magnet for hummingbirds, which are specially adapted to reach the nectar in its tubular flowers. It also attracts native bees and butterflies, and produces berries that feed songbirds.
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.
Does Smooth Honeysuckle fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.