Honeysuckle ‘Kintzley’s Ghost’

(Photo courtesy Proven Winners)

We just received the unique variety of honeysuckle called ‘Kintzley’s Ghost’ (Lonicera reticulata). This eye-catching plant is a North America native and is an eye-catcher.

Dusty blue-green leaves develop into large, saucer-like discs, somewhat reminiscent of the Silver Dollar Eucalyptus. Slightly fragrant, small yellow flowers appear in late spring. Red berries appear in late summer. This honeysuckle is not as vigorous as other varieties and will reach heights of 6 – 12′ with a spread of 3′ -5′. It is good for arbors, fences or a trellis.

Honeysuckles are easy to grow and not too fussy about soil types. A moist, well-drained soil will give the best results. Once established, plants are drought tolerant. Full sun to part shade.

As with all honeysuckles, it is beloved by bees, butterflies and hummingbirds.

‘Kintzey’s Ghost’ was named after  William Kintzley at Iowa State University, who propagated it in the 1880s. The plant was never introduced into commerce, and was recently discovered growing in a Kintzley family member’s garden in Fort Collins, Colorado.