Diervilla lonicera is a rugged adaptable native shrub valued for its bright yellow summer blooms, reliable fall color, and ability to thrive in challenging sites. Especially prized for its pollinator support, this suckering deciduous shrub forms low mounds making it ideal for erosion control, woodland borders, and naturalized plantings.
Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 36 - 48 in
Bloom Time: Early to late summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Average to dry soils, tolerant of clay and poor fertility
Watering Needs: Low to moderate once established
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
Native to eastern North America, Diervilla lonicera thrives in woodland edges, rocky slopes, and disturbed habitats supporting native biodiversity.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Highly attractive to native bumblebees, sweat bees, and long tongued bees due to its tubular yellow flowers and extended bloom season.
Butterflies
- Nectar source for swallowtails and fritillaries visiting summer woodlands.
Birds
- Dense branches and low suckering growth habit provide cover and nesting sites for songbirds such as sparrows and thrushes.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 36 - 48 in apart to allow for natural suckering and colony formation.
Landscape Placement:
- Well suited for sloped woodland edges, naturalized borders, and erosion prone areas where a tough native is desired.
Companion Plants
- Aronia melanocarpa 'Viking' - Multi season interest with spring bloom, summer berries, and rich fall foliage to complement Diervilla's color.
- Heuchera villosa 'Autumn Bride' - Soft velvety leaves and upright creamy spires provide visual lift at the feet of this suckering shrub.
- Amsonia tabernaemontana - Arching blue star flowers and soft willow like foliage echo the open texture of Diervilla.
- Carex pensylvanica - A fine textured sedge that knits well around the base of spreading Diervilla clumps.
- Solidago caesia - Blue stemmed goldenrod weaves between shrubs with late season golden sprays that support native pollinators.