Honeysuckle, Northern Bush - Diervilla lonicera

Diervilla lonicera, also called Northern Bush Honeysuckle or Dwarf Bush Honeysuckle, is a perennial deciduous shrub native to Michigan and the U.P. This is a low, spreading shrub with ground-sweeping branches, 2 to 4 feet in height and equal width. It prefers cool climates, rocky sites, and tolerates dry or infertile soil, perfect for a lot of difficult sites in the U.P. Frequently found in balsam fir or jack pine areas. Full sun to part shade, dry to medium soils.
 
Northern Bush Honeysuckle spreads by suckering, making it great at covering hillsides, especially difficult, north-facing slopes, and controlling erosion. It is not a true honeysuckle - its scientific name means honeysuckle-like. It should not be confused with the non-native honeysuckles which are usually more tree-like and have pink or white flowers. 
 
Leaves gradually change from rich green to dark red over the course of the season. Flowers are small, yellow, and tubular, appearing in July or early August. The tubular flowers are visited by butterflies and hummingbirds, as well as long-tongued bees. Foliage hosts clearwing moths and seeds are eaten by birds.
 
Our Northern Bush Honeysuckle is grown by us from U.P.-sourced seed.