Major Wheeler Trumpet Honeysuckle

Major Wheeler Trumpet Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens 'Major Wheeler')

Major Wheeler Trumpet Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens 'Major Wheeler') is a standout native vine prized for its fiery red tubular blooms, vigorous growth, and excellent disease resistance. This non-invasive cultivar of coral honeysuckle is a magnet for hummingbirds and a reliable performer in a wide range of garden settings. Its long flowering season, wildlife value, and manageable habit make it an outstanding choice for vertical color and native plantings.

Distinctive Features

'Major Wheeler' produces abundant clusters of vibrant red flowers with gold throats from late spring through summer, often blooming into early fall. The flowers are particularly attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies. Its blue-green foliage is mildew resistant and semi-evergreen in warmer zones. With support, this twining vine can reach 6 to 10 feet in height, creating a dense, colorful screen without aggressive spreading.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil; adaptable to poor or sandy soils
• Water: Moderate; becomes drought tolerant once established
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Bold red blooms and climbing habit provide standout visual interest
• Wildlife Gardens: Native nectar source for hummingbirds and butterflies
• Trellises and Arbors: Climbs easily to create vertical floral displays
• Naturalized Plantings: Blends well in meadows and woodland edges
• Pollinator Pathways: Supports local ecosystems with reliable bloom

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water regularly during establishment; tolerate dry spells after
• Pruning: Prune after flowering to shape or rejuvenate
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to encourage growth
• Mulching: Maintain mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
• Disease Resistance: Excellent mildew resistance and overall hardiness

Why Choose Major Wheeler Trumpet Honeysuckle?

• Brilliant Red Blooms: Long-lasting color that attracts pollinators
• Native and Non-Invasive: Provides ecological value without becoming aggressive
• Strong Performance: Vigorous and reliable with excellent disease resistance
• Extended Bloom Time: Flowers heavily from late spring through early fall
• Focal Point: A bold native vine perfect for arbors, trellises, and entryways

Lonicera sempervirens 'Major Wheeler' is a dependable, colorful, and wildlife-friendly honeysuckle that offers lasting seasonal impact. Its native heritage, ease of care, and ornamental appeal make it an excellent addition to both formal gardens and naturalistic landscapes.