Fly honeysuckle (Lonicera xylosteum 'Emerald Mound')

Overview

Lonicera xylosteum ‘Emerald Mound’ delivers dense, low-growing structure perfect for gardeners seeking minimal effort in exchange for aesthetic appeal. This specialized cultivar of the European fly honeysuckle forms a compact mound, ideal for areas where the standard species might become too large. Its appeal lies in its reliable, manageable size and hardy nature, establishing quickly in appropriate cool summer climates.

As a deciduous shrub, this Fly honeysuckle offers consistent texture through the growing season, featuring gray-green to blue-green foliage that holds its color late into autumn. Flowering occurs in May, producing subtle, creamy yellow blossoms which give way to dark red berries later in the summer. The small stature of the ‘Emerald Mound’ cultivar (reaching only about 3 feet tall) makes it highly functional for low borders and foundations where space is limited.

The practical value of Lonicera xylosteum ‘Emerald Mound’ is enhanced by its adaptability; it tolerates poor soils, pollution, and is resistant to browsing deer. For gardeners in cooler regions (Zones 4-6), this robust shrub stands out as a vigorous, low-maintenance choice for formal or informal mass plantings.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Caprifoliaceae
• Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-6
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 2.5-3 ft
  • Spread: 4-6 ft
• Bloom Time: May
• Bloom Description: Yellow
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Water Needs: Medium
• Maintenance Level: Low

How to Grow

Plant Lonicera xylosteum ‘Emerald Mound’ in the spring or fall when conditions are mildest. Ensure the selected site offers humusy, organically rich, medium-moisture, well-drained soil. While this shrub thrives in full sun in cooler climates, those near the southern edge of its range (Zone 6) should ensure it receives some afternoon shade to prevent stress.

Care is straightforward due to the low maintenance profile of this Fly honeysuckle. Water consistently to keep the soil medium moist until the plant is established; established specimens exhibit moderate drought tolerance. Fertilizing is rarely needed unless the soil is exceptionally poor. Pruning should be performed judiciously, only immediately following the May flowering period to maintain the desired mound shape.

This cultivar is exceptionally rugged, tolerating disturbed conditions and urban pollution, including winter salt spray. It is generally winter hardy to Zone 3, though performance south of Zone 6 is not recommended. Propagation is achievable via rooted stem cuttings if replicating the Lonicera xylosteum ‘Emerald Mound’ is desired.

Landscape Uses

Lonicera xylosteum ‘Emerald Mound’ excels where a dense, low-profile hedge or border element is required. Its vigorous yet restrained growth habit is perfect for defining edges along walkways or creating layered plantings in woodland gardens. Because it maintains its dense structure, this Fly honeysuckle functions excellently as a low screen where taller shrubs are unsuitable.

Consider mass grouping ‘Emerald Mound’ for high-impact informal drifts, particularly effective on slopes or banks where its root structure helps stabilize the soil. In foundation plantings, its manageable 3-foot height prevents it from obscuring lower windows or architectural details. While the berries possess some visual interest, avoid planting it near areas where fallen fruit accumulation might be an issue.

Standout Features

Flower Qualities

• Showy

Fruit Qualities

• Showy

Noteworthy Characteristics

Lonicera xylosteum, commonly called European fly honeysuckle, is a mounding, rapid-growing, deciduous shrub that matures on arching, hollow, pubescent, brown stems to 6-10’ tall with a slightly wider spread to 10-12’ wide. The dwarf cultivar ‘Emerald Mound’ is prized for growing only to 3’ tall and spreading 4-6’ wide, featuring dense emerald green leaves, creamy yellow flowers in May, and attractive red fruits ripening late summer. Flowers of this species are notably pollinated by flies rather than bumblebees, which accounts for its common name.

Tolerances

• Deer
• Drought
• Black Walnut

Potential Problems

Overall, Lonicera xylosteum ‘Emerald Mound’ rarely suffers from serious insect or disease issues, making it a reliable shrub choice. However, in hot and humid summer climates, growers should monitor for powdery mildew and leaf spot, which can sometimes develop on the foliage. Management often involves ensuring good air circulation during spring growth. Watch carefully for minor infestations of honeysuckle aphids and scale insects, treating them promptly with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap if numbers become problematic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Fly honeysuckle suitable for?

Lonicera xylosteum ‘Emerald Mound’ performs best within USDA Zones 4 through 6, though the species itself is winter hardy to Zone 3.

How large does Lonicera xylosteum ‘Emerald Mound’ grow?

This dwarf cultivar typically matures to a height range of 2.5 to 3 feet tall, with a spread usually between 4 and 6 feet wide.

When does Fly honeysuckle bloom?

Bloom time for this variety is in May, featuring yellowish-white to creamy yellow flowers.

What sun exposure does Lonicera xylosteum ‘Emerald Mound’ need?

It prefers full sun but will perform well in partial shade, especially where summer heat is intense.

Conclusion

The Lonicera xylosteum ‘Emerald Mound’ provides excellent value as a compact, pollution-tolerant shrub with very low maintenance demands. Its dense form and consistent green coverage make this Fly honeysuckle an invaluable asset for low hedges and structure in cool summer landscapes. Before planting, confirm that your garden falls within USDA Zones 4-6 to ensure the longevity and best performance of this charming mound.

Companion Planting

When selecting partners for Lonicera xylosteum ‘Emerald Mound’, consider plants that share similar soil and sun requirements, benefiting from its tolerance for poor soils. Woodland gardens pair well with low-growing native ferns or hostas that appreciate the dappled shade, particularly near the southern limits of this shrub’s range. When using it for low borders in sunny areas, complementary low-spreading groundcovers that offer seasonal color, like creeping thyme or sedums, can provide excellent contrast without competing aggressively for resources.

Propagation Tips

While the ‘Emerald Mound’ cultivar is generally obtained from nursery stock, propagation is possible if you wish to expand your planting. The parent species, and often this cultivar, can be successfully propagated by taking rooted stem cuttings. The best practice involves collecting semi-hardwood cuttings taken in mid-summer after flowering has finished. Ensure cuttings are placed in a well-drained medium and kept consistently moist under optimal environmental conditions to encourage rooting.