Thicket/ Morrows Honeysuckle

COMMON NAME: Morrows Honeysuckle

OTHER COMMON NAME(S):

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Lonicera Morrowii

FAMILY: Caprifoliaceae

COMMUNITY: Thicket

STATUS: Naturalized (native of Japan)

LIFESPAN: Perennial

HEIGHT: Trailing or twining vine

FLOWERING TIME: May and June

FRUITING TIME: July and August

DISTRIBUTION: Northwest NJ and Island Beach State Park

IDENTIFYING CHARACTERISTICS: Leaves oblong to narrowly elliptic

GENERAL INFORMATION: This large family (Caprifoliaceae) commonly called the Honeysuckle family consists of 16 genera and 365 species of shrubs, lianas, small trees and a few herbs.  These are found in north temperate and boreal regions and tropical mountains.  Family members include ornamental shrugs such as snowberry Elder and species of Viburnum, Abelia, and Weigelia. Preparations of the Honeysuckle family have been used to treat asthma and other chest conditions.  The bark is diuretic and may be taken to relieve gout, kidney stones and liver problems.  The leaves make a good gargle and mouthwash or sore throats and canker sores.  The Honeysuckle berries are toxic.

Please note: While harvesting wild berries/fruit is permitted at Island Beach State Park, visitors must adhere to park regulations at all times and must not damage vegetation or go off designated trails.  This information is presented for educational purposes.