Britannica Sources used in this answer

Why are some Lonicera species considered invasive weeds in parts of the United States?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

In the context of the Dipsacales order, certain species of honeysuckle (Lonicera) are considered invasive weeds in parts of the United States because of their aggressive growth habits. Specifically, the Japanese honeysuckle (L. japonica) is noted for its ability to grow over other plants, effectively shutting out light and outcompeting native vegetation.12

While many Lonicera species are valued as ornamental shrubs and climbers for their fragrant flowers, these introduced species have established themselves in North American environments where they can become serious ecological nuisances.12