Lonicera fragrantissima – Fragrant Winter Honeysuckle
Fragrant Winter Honeysuckle is a must-have for winter interest in the garden. This deciduous shrub produces small, creamy-white flowers in late winter to early spring—filling the air with a strong, sweet citrus scent even before the leaves emerge.
Also Known As (AKA):
- Sweet Breath of Spring
- January Jasmine
- Winter Honeysuckle
A pollinator favorite during the cooler months, this honeysuckle variety is easy to grow, drought-tolerant once established, and ideal for foundation plantings, shrub borders, or cottage-style landscapes.
- � Fragrant white flowers in late winter
- � Early source of nectar for pollinators
- � Grows as a rounded, arching shrub
- � Drought-tolerant once established
- � Mature Size: 6–10 ft. tall and wide
- ☀️ Thrives in full sun to part shade
Note: This is a non-vining honeysuckle that performs well with minimal care. Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.
Growing Zones: 4–8 outdoors

| Mature Height: | 6–10 ft. |
| Sunlight: | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Mature Width: | 6–10 ft. |
| Botanical Name: | Lonicera fragrantissima |
| Growth Rate: | Moderate |
| Bloom Time: | Late Winter to Early Spring |
| Type: | Deciduous Flowering Shrub |
FAQ's
When does it bloom?
Fragrant Winter Honeysuckle blooms from late winter to early spring, often before the leaves emerge.
Is it fragrant?
Yes! It produces a strong, sweet lemony scent that carries through the cool air.
Does it attract pollinators?
Yes. Its early blooms offer vital nectar to bees and pollinators when little else is in flower.
Can it be grown in part shade?
Yes, it thrives in both full sun and partial shade environments.
Does it climb like other honeysuckles?
No, this is a shrub-form honeysuckle with a bushy habit—not a climber or vine.
How do I prune it?
Prune lightly after flowering to shape or rejuvenate the plant.