Mexican honeysuckle is a fast-growing, evergreen vine that can reach up to 30 feet in length. It has dark green leaves and tubular, yellow flowers that bloom from spring to fall. The plant is native to Mexico and Central America, but it has been introduced to other parts of the world, including the southern United States. Mexican honeysuckle is considered an invasive species in many areas because it can overtake native plants and change the habitat.
Related plant:
Mexican Mock Orange
About soil condition, Mexican honeysuckle prefers well-drained soil but can tolerate some degree of drought. It is somewhat cold hardy, though may suffer dieback in severe winters. The plant can spread aggressively in ideal conditions, so it may need to be pruned back periodically to keep it in check.
Just like other species in the genus Lonicera, the Mexican honeysuckle is a twining vine that can reach up to 20 feet in length. This vine is characterized by its small, oval-shaped leaves and its tubular, yellow flowers. The Mexican honeysuckle blooms from late spring to early summer and its flowers are followed by small, black berries. This vine is native to Mexico and it prefers to grow in full sun to partial shade. It is quite adaptable, though, and it will also tolerate full shade. The Mexican honeysuckle is not particular about soil type, as long as the soil is well-drained. This vine is relatively drought-tolerant, once it is established.
The temperature condition for Mexican honeysuckle is that it grows best in warm climates. It can tolerate some frost, but not for extended periods of time. If the temperature gets too cold, the plant will go into dormancy and may not flower.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 55%-75%. The plant will do best in partial sun to partial shade, with morning sun and afternoon shade being the ideal light exposure. The Mexican honeysuckle does not tolerate drought well and will require supplemental watering during extended periods of dry weather.
Mentioning fertilizer, this family of plant really doesn't need any other than what's in the soil. It does best in a well-drained location, and actually prefers to be a bit on the dry side. This is especially true when it comes to the roots. The roots don't mind being a bit crowded, so feel free to plant it close to other things.
Pruning should be done in early spring, just as new growth begins to appear. Mexican honeysuckle can be pruned quite severely, and will respond well to hard pruning. This is necessary to keep the plant under control and to promote new growth.
Propagation is best done in late summer to early fall. Take stem cuttings that are 4 to 6 inches long and remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting. Dip the cuttings in a rooting hormone and plant in a well-drained soil mix. Water the cuttings well and place in a bright, but indirect light. Keep the soil moist, but not soggy. The cuttings should root within 4 to 6 weeks. Once they have rooted, they can be transplanted into pots or into the garden.
Usually, the plant growth rate plants will grow rapidly in full sun to part shade. In fact, they can tolerate shade much better than other honeysuckle varieties. However, the plants will produce the most blooms when they receive plenty of sunlight. Plant mexican honeysuckle in moist, well-drained soil. These tough plants are drought tolerant once they are established.
Common problems for this kind of plant are aphids, scale, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with an insecticide. However, if the infestation is severe, you may need to remove the affected plant parts and dispose of them.
Source:
UNF - UNF Landscape - Justicia spicigera - Mexican honeysuckle
Shrub Honeysuckle: Accurate Identification - Penn State Extension
Amur honeysuckle | Mississippi State University Extension Service
