Lonicera periclymenum Scentsation - European honeysuckle

 The Lonicera periclymenum 'Scentsation' is a relatively recent variety of woodbine honeysuckle that will charm with its exceptionally fragrant and abundant summer flowering. From June to September-October, this tireless vine produces bouquets of initially white, then yellow flowers that perfume a whole area of the garden. Red flowers and fruits appear on the plant from July and last until late in the season. It can be easily grown in full sun or partial shade, in ordinary soil that is not too heavy, and prefers a moderately moist environment, although it can tolerate periods of moderate drought.

The Lonicera periclymenum belongs to the caprifoliaceae family. It is a very common woodbine honeysuckle in Europe, especially central Europe and up to Sweden. It can also be found in North Africa. In France, it grows spontaneously in hedges and woods, preferably on siliceous soils rich in sand and humus. It is present in almost all regions, but rare in the southeast of the country. In the wild, it develops sturdy voluble stems of 3m (10ft) or more that spontaneously wrap around neighboring shrubs and trees. This honeysuckle has given rise to numerous cultivars, including 'Scentsation', selected for the abundance and fragrance of its flowers, as well as its more compact habit. It was elected "Climbing Plant of the Year 2016" at the Horticultural Rendez-vous in Montreal.

The 'Scentsation' honeysuckle does not exceed 2 to 3 m (7 to 10ft) in height. Its robust stems bear leathery foliage, of a slightly glaucous medium green, which persists more or less in winter. Its tubular flowers form at the ends of the current year's shoots, gathered in generously fragrant bouquets. Highly visited by pollinating insects, they are followed by the formation of highly decorative bright red berries, highlighted by cream-coloured flower buds and yellow and white flowers that continue to bloom until September, in successive waves. The fruits are highly appreciated by birds. The leaves are arranged in pairs on vigorous woody stems. This non-invasive variety will adapt to a wide range of soils, as long as they are properly drained.

'Scentsation' will be superb trained against a wall, on a trellis or fence, on an arch or pergola, preferably near the terrace, the entrance of the house or a French window to fully enjoy its fragrance, particularly intoxicating in the evening. It can also make a good ground cover in a wild corner of the garden or be grown in a container on a terrace or balcony. It pairs well with small viticella group clematis, which are not demanding and flower at the same time. It can also be trained to climb on shrubs with simultaneous flowering (butterfly bushes, climbing or shrub roses, deciduous ceanothus) or staggered flowering (Japanese quince, Abeliophyllum, white spring spireas).