Question
QUESTION: I have two large cape honeysuckle bushes that look quite dead this winter. I've lived in Henderson for 3 years and can never remember them looking like this.

There is some, very little, new growth on some of the branches, but for the most part, they look brown, dry, and dead.

Are they just dormant? Is it likely that they'll come back?

ANSWER: Hi Patty,
Thanx for your question.  Can you tell me in which Henderson you live?  Nevada?  Did you have a hard frost this year?
thx,
Tom

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Yes, Henderson, NV. Although the temperatures have dipped below the freezing mark a few times, I don't think we've really had a hard frost.

Answer
Hi Patty,
Thanx for the additional information.  It sounds to me that they are just dormant.  If you've got some new growth appearing.  If you had none, then, I would be concerned.  Cape Honeysuckle is hardy from zones 9-11.  Cool South Nevada winters could cause the bushes to lose their foliage but will not kill the roots as long as the ground does not freeze.  I think your plant is okay and once warm temperatures return, the plant will regrow and be fine.  I hope this helps.
Tom