On the Street . . . Stapelton neighborhood, Denver
Lonicera japonica purpurea
Today I spotted this purple-leaf honeysuckle vine thriving - and evergreen - on a south facing house facade. The deep purple foliage is a welcome blast of winter color. During the growing season the foliage will revert to green, as seen in this old photo from my own garden:
That is a great foliage color for winter interest. That same honeysuckle was used as a high groundcover in Oklahoma where I went to college, to cover entire parking lot islands and add color to the bases of deciduous trees. Quite effective!
Vines as groundcover are not used nearly enough - good reminder! Notice that this vine was planted near the base of a drain pipe? Probably gets a nice shot of extra water now and then - ideal for honeysuckle happiness.
4 comments:
That is a great foliage color for winter interest. That same honeysuckle was used as a high groundcover in Oklahoma where I went to college, to cover entire parking lot islands and add color to the bases of deciduous trees. Quite effective!
Vines as groundcover are not used nearly enough - good reminder! Notice that this vine was planted near the base of a drain pipe? Probably gets a nice shot of extra water now and then - ideal for honeysuckle happiness.
I love the smell of honey suckle. Nothing quite like it. I am surprised to see it in such a cold climate.
Yes, Ruth, honeysuckle - both vines and woody shrubs - do quite well here. And I agree with you, their fragrance is heavenly!
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