European honeysuckle is native to much of Europe, North Africa, Turkey and the Caucasus. It is found as far north as southern Norway, Sweden and Finland. It often growths in woodland or in hedgerows or scrubland.
Growing to 7 m or more in height, it is a vigorous deciduous twining climber. The leaves are deep green and oval; there are two leaves per node along the stem. Occasionally old leaves are kept over winter.
The tubular, two-lipped flowers, creamy white or yellowish in color, may be flushed with pink or red on the outside and in bud. They are carried in showy clusters at the ends of the shoots. The flowers are highly scented by night. Sweet, heady fragrance calls to nearby species, particularly on warm summer evenings. Honeysuckle’s nectar provides a welcome source of energy to insects and mammals alike.