Case Study: Morrow's Honeysuckle by Hope Kim

Case Study: Morrow’s Honeysuckle

Est: 1800

ORIGIN : Japan, Korea, northeast China.

Currently found in Virginia and the mid-Atlantic region of North America.

RELOCATION REASONS : Use for ornamental and decor, prevent soil erosion, wildlife food resource

DESCRIPTION : Multi stemmed shrub up to 7 feet tall.

LEAVES: 1-2 oblong/ elliptical shape, hairy underneath, slightly hairy on top FLOWER: flowers are white, tubular, paired, 5 petaled flower, that emerge i n l a t e A p r i l- e a rly M a y FRUIT: fruits are paired, red to orange in color, fruit mature in July and can last through winter

- poisonous for humans

- does not provide the proper

nutrients for birds and mice

SPREAD: Through the consumption and defecation of the fruit from birds allows for the spread of the Morrow’s Honeysuckle.

ECOLOGICAL THREAT: The compact thicket of the bush cuts off space and sunlight for native plant species; displacing them. Quick invasion of open woodlands from birds spreading the seeds, impeding on reforestation efforts. It structure encourages nesting for birds which has lead to an increase in nest predation.

CONTROL AND PREVENTION: Pulling out young plants can be easily done by hand, but a tool may be required for older plants. Herbicides may be applied as well.

The case of the Morrow’s Honeysuckle is not a stand alone case. There are multiple plants and animals affecting the endemic ecology of Virginia.

With out any prevention efforts these species have the ability to change the environment greatly.

Hope Kim