Origin of Lonicera involucrata Banks ex Spreng. var. involucrata
Lonicera involucrata Banks ex Spreng. var. involucrata, commonly known as black twinberry or bearberry honeysuckle, is a flowering plant species from the Caprifoliaceae family. It is native to western North America, found in Alaska, California, Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia.
Common Names of Lonicera involucrata Banks ex Spreng. var. involucrata
The plant is known by several common names, including black twinberry, bearberry honeysuckle, twinberry honeysuckle, and fly honeysuckle.
Uses of Lonicera involucrata Banks ex Spreng. var. involucrata
The black twinberry plant has been used for medicinal purposes by indigenous groups. The Haida tribe of British Columbia used the bark and leaves to treat coughs and colds. The plant was also used to treat digestive issues and urinary tract infections. Black twinberry fruits are also edible and were consumed by Native Americans, mainly the Haida and Tlingit tribes. The fruits were eaten raw or used in traditional recipes such as fruit leather, jelly, or mixed with fish or sea otter oil.
General Appearance of Lonicera involucrata Banks ex Spreng. var. involucrata
The black twinberry is a deciduous shrub that can reach up to 3 meters in height. The leaves are opposite, simple, and oval-shaped, measuring 3-8 cm in length and 2-5 cm in width. The plant produces small, yellowish-white flowers that bloom from May to June. The flowers are followed by clusters of dark purple to black berries that are about 6-8 mm in diameter. The berries are covered in a persistent, leaf-like bract or involucre, giving the plant its name.
Light Requirements
Lonicera involucrata Banks ex Spreng. var. involucrata thrives in partial shade to full sun. However, it may prefer partial shade in very hot climates, as it can scorch in the intense heat. As a young plant, it may require more shade until it establishes itself.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can survive in temperatures as low as -50°F (-46°C) and as high as 90°F (32°C). However, it grows best in cooler temperatures ranging from around 60-70°F (16-21°C). It requires a dormant period during the winter months with temperatures ranging between 32-50°F (0-10°C).
Soil Requirements
Lonicera involucrata Banks ex Spreng. var. involucrata grows best in well-drained soils with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sand, loam, and gravel, but does not tolerate heavy or poorly drained soils. It also prefers soils that are rich in organic matter, so the addition of compost or leaf litter to the planting area can be beneficial.
Cultivation
The Lonicera involucrata Banks ex Spreng. var. involucrata plant grows well in full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-drained, moist soil with a pH of 5.0 to 7.5. It can tolerate cold weather and can thrive in zones 2 to 7.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. It is crucial to water deeply to ensure that the roots receive enough moisture. A thorough watering once a week is ideal, but this may vary depending on the weather conditions and the type of soil.
Fertilization
The plant is relatively low maintenance and requires less fertilizer. However, if necessary, you can add a balanced fertilizer in early spring or late fall. It is best to avoid fertilizers that are high in nitrogen as it can promote leaf growth instead of flowers.
Pruning
The plant does not require much pruning apart from removing dead or damaged branches. You can prune the plant in late winter or early spring before the new growth begins. If you want to manage the plant's size, you can cut back one-third of the plant's wood. However, avoid excessive pruning as it can harm the plant and affect its flowering ability.
Propagation of Lonicera involucrata Banks ex Spreng. var. involucrata
Lonicera involucrata Banks ex Spreng. var. involucrata can be propagated through various means:
Seed Propagation
The plant produces seeds that can be collected and sown to propagate new plants. The seeds must be collected when they are mature and fully ripe. The seeds of Lonicera involucrata Banks ex Spreng. var. involucrata should be sown in a well-draining soil mix, approximately 1-2 inches deep. The seeds should be kept moist and at a warm temperature of approximately 21°C until germination.
Cuttings Propagation
Greenwood or semi-hardwood cuttings of Lonicera involucrata Banks ex Spreng. var. involucrata can be taken in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be approximately 2-3 inches in length and should have a few leaves. The leaves should be stripped from the lower one-third of the cutting, and the cutting should be dipped in a rooting hormone. The cuttings should be inserted into a rooting medium and kept moist and at a temperature of approximately 21°C until they root and can be transplanted into pots or the garden.
Layering Propagation
Layering is also an effective way to propagate Lonicera involucrata Banks ex Spreng. var. involucrata. In layering, a low-growing branch is bent down and buried into the soil. The branch should be wounded where it contacts the soil to encourage root growth. The buried portion of the branch should be kept moist until roots have developed. Once roots have developed, the branch can be cut from the parent plant and transplanted into a new location.
Disease and Pest Management for Lonicera involucrata Banks ex Spreng. var. involucrata
Lonicera involucrata Banks ex Spreng. var. involucrata is easy to grow and maintain, but it is not entirely immune to diseases and pests. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggest ways to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf Spots: Leaf spots are the most common fungal disease that affect the honeysuckle plant. The disease manifests as reddish-purple or brown spots, sometimes with a yellow halo. To manage this disease, prune all infected leaves and stems and dispose of them properly. Avoid watering the plant from above, as wet leaves increase the risk of fungal infection.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaf blades, petioles, and stems of the plant. It manifests as a white, powdery coating on the affected area. To manage this disease, remove all infected parts of the plant and spray with a copper-containing fungicide.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing deformed leaves and stunted growth. To manage this pest, use a strong spray of water to dislodge aphids from the plant. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to control the pest.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that are difficult to see with the naked eye. These pests cause the leaves to become mottled, yellowed, and dry. To manage this pest, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge the mites. Repeat the process regularly.
With proper disease and pest management, your Lonicera involucrata Banks ex Spreng. var. involucrata will remain healthy and vibrant, providing beauty to your garden for many years to come.
