Amur Honeysuckle
Lonicera maackii · Caprifoliaceae (Honeysuckle family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Ovate to lanceolate with an acuminate (tapering) tip
Margin
Entire (smooth) margins
Arrangement
Opposite along the branches
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent midrib and distinct lateral veins arching toward the margin
Key Features
Opposite, simple ovate leaves with acuminate tips, hollow stems (especially in older branches), and prolific pairs of bright red spherical berries clinging closely to the stems.
Description
Amur honeysuckle is a large, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub that can grow up to 15-20 feet tall. It features fragrant white-to-pink tubular flowers in spring, followed by abundant, glossy bright red berries in late summer and autumn that persist well into winter. The leaves are simple, opposite, and retain their green color later into autumn than many native shrubs.
Habitat
Thrives in disturbed areas, forest edges, open woodlands, old fields, and along roadsides. Prefers moist, well-draining soils and can tolerate partial shade to full sun.
Native Range
Native to temperate Asia (China, Korea, Japan, Russia). Widely introduced and highly invasive across eastern and central North America.