Diervilla rivularis - mountain bush honeysuckle

Height: 3 - 6’
Width: 6’ +
Light Needs: sun to part shade
Water: average
Flower color: yellow
Bloom time: July

This species is native to the mountains of Georgia and North Carolina, not to South Carolina. It is a compact deciduous shrub that can spread slowly by root suckers. It is very similar to our native Diervilla sessiliflora but has more fuzz on the stems and leaves. The leaves provide a dark green backdrop for the clusters of yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers. It is drought tolerant once established. Because of its compact size, it is suitable for a formal garden (with a little maintenance) and it is useful for naturalizing. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, hummingbirds and other pollinators. It is reported to be deer resistant but it may be beneficial to protect small plants.