Pergolas and gazebos are crying out to have honeysuckles festooning their woodwork. The scent from honeysuckle flowers on a balmy evening in July or August is delightful and can be mixed with that from Jasmine (Jasminum Officinale), equally vigorous climbers. They can be grown in any position and many are fully hardy. Among the most popular and best performers are 'Graham Thomas' and Lonicera x americana.

For hot Mediterranean gardens go for Lonicera etrusca and for sub-tropical climes or greenhouses a really splendid honeysuckle with huge flowers is Lonicera hildebrandiana. For hedgerows grow Lonicera japonica 'Halliana'. Some varieties do well in shade.

Looking Good:
During July look out for the bright colours of honeysuckles in the collections at the Cambridge University Botanic Garden.

Best With:
Grow honeysuckle in a hedgerow or up a fruit tree, so that its wild nature can be best appreciated. For more ideas and inspiration, see Hot and Dry Garden, Fruit Garden and Shady Garden.