Lonicera nitida 'Ernest Wilson'

The Lonicera nitida 'Ernest Wilson' is a slowly growing, evergreen shrub that belongs to the honeysuckle family (Lonicera). The distinctive features of this variety are as follows:

1. **Appearance**: This shrub has a compact and dense growth habit, typically reaching a height of 60-90 cm. 'Ernest Wilson' has a rounded shape, making it ideal for shaped hedges, gardens, or as a border plant.

2. **Color**: The leaves are small, oval, and glossy dark green, retaining their color throughout the year. The leaves grow densely, providing a rich green backdrop during the flowering period.

3. **Blooming**: The flowers of 'Ernest Wilson' are yellowish-white and small, but the variety is primarily planted for its aesthetic value in foliage, as the flowering is not particularly showy, though it attracts pollinators.

4. **Light requirements**: The honeysuckle thrives in sunny or partially shaded locations, but shows the best growth in sunny spots. Proper light conditions help in the development of strong and healthy foliage.

5. **Soil requirements**: It adapts well to various soil types but prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soils.

6. **Uses**: It is excellent for shaped hedges, in gardens, parks, and also as a container plant. The aesthetic appearance of 'Ernest Wilson' makes it a popular choice in landscaping.

The Lonicera nitida 'Ernest Wilson' is a versatile shrub that adds aesthetic value to its surroundings with its fresh green color and dense foliage, making it an ideal choice for low-maintenance green spaces.