PLANT

Diervilla rivularis, commonly called honeysuckle, is a compact deciduous shrub that typically grows up to 1.5 metres tall. It is native to the cliffs, banks, cliffs and wet rocky forests of the southern Appalachians from western North Carolina and northwestern Georgia west to eastern Tennessee and northern Alabama. It is closely related to Diervilla sessilifolia, but is mainly distinguished by its densely hairy branches and lower leaf p art. The trumpet-shaped, two-lipped, pale yellow to greenish yellow flowers, typical of honeysuckle, bloom from June to August in crowded clusters (terminal and axillary tops). Flowers are followed by oblong fruits (1/4″ or longer). Leaves simple, opposite, oval to elliptical (1 1/2 to 4″ long), with rounded to cordate bases, toothed margins, densely hairy undersides and pointed tips, short-stalked at the bottom and almost stemless at the top of the bush. Good yellow-red colour in autumn.

USE

It is used as an ornamental plant because of its beautiful flowers, but also as a melliferous plant for beekeepers who need summer blooms.

POSITION

Prefers sunny areas. Withstands drought well. Withstands winter frosts well.