Diervilla splendens Kodiak Orange

The Diervilla 'Kodiak Orange' is part of a series of recent varieties selected in the USA for its compact habit, long flowering period, ease of cultivation and remarkably coloured foliage. This cultivar has the particularity of forming purple-orange young shoots in spring that contrast beautifully in summer with its charming clusters of sulphur yellow tubular flowers that even appear in the shade. Its modest size and undemanding nature make it an ideal bush to adorn difficult corners such as woodlands and small gardens.

The Diervilla Kodiak Orange is a horticultural selection derived from the Diervilla rivularis, a species native to the woodlands of the southern United States. This suckering shrub of the Caprifoliaceae family has a bushy but spreading habit, with multiple stems originating from the base and the ability to cover the ground quite effectively. When mature, it will reach 1.20 m (3 ft 11 in) in all directions, with its lateral growth being fairly easy to control by removing suckers or by planting other vigorous woodland plants alongside it. The foliage consists of ovate, elongated leaves with pointed tips and slightly wavy edges. The leaves are purple-orange in spring, partially turning green in summer, before taking on bright orange hues in autumn. At the end of the season, the leaves dry up and fall off. Its summer flowering, appreciated by pollinating insects, occurs from June to August. Its pale yellow flowers, gathered in clusters, will bloom on the previous year's wood, displaying a lovely purple colour. This Diervilla will provide you with abundant flowering, even in shaded areas and in the roots of trees where it particularly thrives.  It will thrive in all exposures, including shade, and in areas of the garden that are sometimes difficult to landscape.

A low-maintenance ground cover, it is suited to all exposures and all types of soil without excessive limestone and not too dry. Its small growth is ideal for small gardens, enclosed spaces, or steep slopes. It retains and stabilises slopes thanks to its suckers (underground stems carrying roots). It is also an ideal choice for filling in an undergrowth. It will work very well in a rose garden or in combination with medium-sized perennials such as Nepetas and shrubs with colourful stems, such as dogwoods.