Lonicera x b. Dropmore Scarlet

Lonicera x b. Dropmore Scarlet

Why Buy Me?

• Long flowering period
• Likes full sun
• Great for trellis, pergolas or arches

Growing Conditions

Light:
Full sun to partial shade. Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for best flowering. Tolerates partial shade but may flower less profusely in lower light.

Soil:
Moist, well-drained, fertile soil. Prefers loamy or sandy soils with neutral to slightly acidic pH. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged conditions, which can hinder growth and reduce flowering.

Exposure:
Ideal for sunny or lightly shaded sites. Grows well on trellises, fences, pergolas, arches, or obelisks. Protect from strong, drying winds to prevent damage to flowers and foliage.

Drought Tolerance:
Moderate. Requires regular watering during dry periods, especially during establishment and active growth. Once established, tolerates short dry spells but performs best with consistent moisture.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Plant in early spring after the last frost or in early autumn to allow the root system to establish before harsh weather.

Spacing:
Space 1–1.5 m (3–5 ft) apart if planting multiple specimens. Grows 3–5 m (10–16 ft) tall with support, making it suitable for medium to large vertical garden structures.

Watering & Fertilization:
Water thoroughly during dry spells and during flowering. Feed in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to support healthy growth and blooms. A second feeding after the main flowering flush may promote extended blooming.

Mulching & Pruning:
Apply mulch in spring to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Pruning Group 2:
Prune in late winter or early spring to shape and remove dead or weak growth. After flowering, lightly trim to maintain a tidy habit and encourage new growth.

Propagation:
Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer or by layering. This cultivar is usually propagated vegetatively to maintain its vibrant flower characteristics.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
New green shoots emerge in spring. Foliage is blue-green and attractive. Flower buds begin forming toward late spring.

Summer:
Main flowering occurs from early to late summer. Produces vibrant clusters of tubular, bright scarlet-orange flowers with yellow throats. Blooms are non-fragrant but visually striking and long-lasting.

Autumn:
Occasional flowers may continue into early autumn. Foliage remains attractive before dropping in colder regions.

Winter:
Deciduous to semi-evergreen depending on climate. Stems may remain visible for structural interest; prune before spring to encourage healthy new growth.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Highly attractive to hummingbirds (in suitable regions), butterflies, and bees due to its nectar-rich, tubular flowers. Less appealing to deer and rabbits. Occasional small berries may be eaten by birds.

Garden Use:
A bold, colourful climber ideal for adding vertical impact to fences, trellises, arches, and arbors. Well-suited to cottage gardens, wildlife gardens, and contemporary designs needing strong flower colour. Can be used to cover unsightly structures or grow into small trees for a naturalistic effect.

Companion Plants:
Pairs well with purple or blue flowering plants like Clematis ‘Jackmanii’, Salvia nemorosa, and Nepeta. Complements ornamental grasses and silver-foliage plants like Artemisia or Lavandula. Also works well with climbing roses for a vibrant summer display.

Don’t miss out on the exceptional quality of the Lonicera x b. Dropmore Scarlet. It’s just a few clicks away when you order online, or you can stop by your nearest Thompson's Branch to pick one up and chat with our knowledgeable team.