Japanese Honeysuckle
Lonicera japonica
Unlike its bush honeysuckle counterparts, Japanese honeysuckle is a large, twining vine which can reach lengths of 30 feet. It will create dense mats over the ground unless there is something nearby to climb, such as a tree or shrub. The plants that are climbed are subsequently choked-out as they lose access to resources - or they are girdled. 

Introduced in the late nineteenth century for ornamental purposes, it is still available for sale in Michigan, although it is prohibited in some neighboring states. Many people found the showy, fragrant flowers appealing. Because of its ability to form a thick mat through rapid growth, it was also planted along steep embankments to prevent erosion. 

Like many invasive species, Japanese honeysuckle thrives in disturbed areas and will persist long enough to lessen an area's overall diversity. 
Photo credits: Karan Rawlins, University of Georgia, Bugwood.org | Wendy VanDyk Evans, Bugwood.org | Chris Evans, University of Illinois, Bugwood.org 
Learn More About Japanese Honeysuckle:
Japanese Honeysuckle Facts
  • Prefers a more southern climate and is more prevalent in Lower Michigan. However, milder winters have allowed it to spread more north. 
  • Has dark purple/black fruits - bush honeysuckles have red/orange fruits.
  • Spreads through the movement of seeds and via extensive rhizomes.
Management Options
  • Mechanical cutting alone is ineffective - new sprouts will likely appear!
  • Very young seedlings can be hand-pulled if entire root system can be removed. 
  • Again, if entire root system can be removed, digging honeysuckle is an option. But keep an eye out for resprouts and be careful of disturbing the seed bank!
  • Herbicide application: Applying a liquid herbicide to a recently cut stump is highly effective - foliar applications may be an option in extremely dense areas. ​