Eight Native Species to Substitute Invasive Honeysuckle for Aid to Regional Pollinators
In the southern United States, invasive honeysuckle species like Tatarian honeysuckle (Lonicera tatarica) and Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) have been causing significant harm to native ecosystems. These aggressive plants outcompete native species for light, space, water, and nutrients, reducing biodiversity and disrupting ecosystems.
One of the negative impacts of invasive honeysuckle is its effect on wildlife. The nectar and berries it provides are not as nutritious as those from native species, harming pollinators and small birds that rely on these food sources. Moreover, some honeysuckle berries contain toxic compounds harmful to humans and animals, causing gastric distress and poisoning risks.
Invasive honeysuckle also contributes to environmental and economic harm, requiring costly management and impairing recreational activities in natural areas. Its dense growth suppresses native shrubs and understory plants, and it creates an environment that attracts mosquitoes.
To counteract these negative effects, it is recommended to replace invasive honeysuckles with native plants. Native species like Coral honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens), though vigorous, are native to eastern U.S. ecosystems and do not displace native plants or disrupt habitats. Using native shrubs and vines helps support local wildlife better by providing more nutritious food sources and habitat, maintaining biodiversity without the negative ecological consequences of invasives.
Here are some alternatives to consider:
- Elderberry bushes are native alternatives to honeysuckle, providing shelter and serving as an invaluable food source for pollinators and small species of bird. American elderberry bare-roots can be purchased through The Arbor Day Foundation.
- Beautyberry grows to form a small shrub, reaching approximately 5 ft. (1.5 m.) in height, with attractive blooms and distinctive purple berries. The 'Early Amethyst' beautyberry variety can be found in the platform Shop.
- Buttonbush is a native shrub that produces an abundance of white, globular flower heads and attracts large numbers of butterflies. The 'Magical Moonlight' and 'Sugar Shack' buttonbush varieties are available in the platform Shop.
- Fragrant sumac may be an excellent option for larger plant species, used in habitat restoration and to prevent and control erosion. A 2-pack of 'Gro-Low' fragrant sumac is available from the Home Depot.
- The ninebark shrub adds year-round interest to the home landscape with large flower clusters and ornamental foliage. The 'Sweet Cherry Tea' ninebark shrub can be found at Fast Growing Trees.
- Trumpet honeysuckle is a native species found throughout the southern United States that produces vibrant tubular blooms. It is not generally considered invasive, but requires a strong trellis or arbor when grown in the flower garden.
- Carolina jasmine, also known as Carolina jessamine, is a perennial jasmine vine that produces an abundance of yellow blooms. It is best planted in flower beds where passersby can enjoy its beauty and fragrance.
- The Maypop passionflower vine can be found in the platform Shop. The Purple Passionflower vine is a native species with a unique hair-like flower structure, not considered invasive.
By choosing native plants over invasive honeysuckle, we can preserve local ecosystems, reduce toxic risks, and sustain native pollinators and wildlife.
Replacing invasive honeysuckle with native plants, such as Elderberry bushes, can provide beneficial food sources for pollinators and small birds, ensuring biodiversity and helping maintain healthy local ecosystems. For instance, American elderberry bare-roots can be purchased to create a suitable habitat.
When gardening, consider incorporating carriers of beautiful blooms, such as Beautyberry, Fragrant sumac, or the Maypop passionflower vine, into your home-and-garden landscape to support and nurture native wildlife while enhancing your lifestyle with color and foliage.
