Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Diervillales |
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus | Diervilla |
Description
Diervilla lonicera, also known as bush honeysuckle, is a low maintenance deciduous shrub that is native to North America. It is a member of the Caprifoliaceae family and is closely related to the honeysuckle plant. The shrub typically grows to a height of 3-4 feet and has a spread of 4-6 feet. The leaves of the Diervilla lonicera are dark green and have a lanceolate shape. They are arranged oppositely on the stem and have a serrated edge. The flowers are yellow in color and bloom in mid to late summer. They are arranged in clusters at the end of the stem and have a tubular shape. The fruit is a small capsule that contains numerous seeds.
Appearance
Diervilla lonicera is a deciduous shrub that typically grows to a height of 3-4 feet and has a spread of 4-6 feet. The leaves are dark green in color and have a lanceolate shape. They are arranged oppositely on the stem and have a serrated edge. The flowers are yellow in color and bloom in mid to late summer. They are arranged in clusters at the end of the stem and have a tubular shape. The fruit is a small capsule that contains numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Diervilla lonicera is a low maintenance shrub that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your bush honeysuckle:Water: Diervilla lonicera is drought tolerant and does not require regular watering. However, it is important to water the shrub during periods of prolonged drought.Fertilization: Diervilla lonicera does not require regular fertilization. However, you can fertilize the shrub once a year in the spring using a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Diervilla lonicera prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The shrub can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay and sand.Sunlight: Diervilla lonicera prefers full sun to partial shade. The shrub can tolerate shade, but it may not flower as well.Hardiness Zones: Diervilla lonicera is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Diervilla lonicera is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, the shrub may be susceptible to the following pests and diseases:Pests:- Spider mites- Aphids- Scale insectsDiseases:- Powdery mildew- Leaf spot- Rust
Habitat
Diervilla lonicera is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and wetlands. The shrub prefers moist soil and can tolerate both sun and shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Diervilla lonicera easy to grow?
A: Yes, Diervilla lonicera is a low maintenance shrub that is easy to grow.
Q: Does Diervilla lonicera attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the yellow flowers of Diervilla lonicera attract bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Diervilla lonicera be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Diervilla lonicera can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the shrub’s roots.
Q: How often should Diervilla lonicera be pruned?
A: Diervilla lonicera does not require regular pruning. However, you can prune the shrub in the spring to remove any dead or damaged branches.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Diervilla lonicera:- Diervilla sessilifolia- Diervilla rivularis- Lonicera japonica- Lonicera periclymenum
References
– “Diervilla lonicera.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b520.- “Diervilla lonicera.” Plant Database, University of Connecticut, www.hort.uconn.edu/plants/detail.php?pid=118.
