Diervilla splendens

Diervilla x splendens, also known as bush honeysuckle, is a large, deciduous, suckering ground cover bush. This close relative of weigela blooms in summer, with clusters of sulphur-yellow flowers that brighten up the green foliage, which turns purple-red in summer and autumn. It will be ideal for covering "difficult" areas of your garden, in dry shade where nothing else grows.

Diervilla x splendens is a horticultural hybrid, resulting from the cross-breeding of two species native to the United States: D. sessilifolia and D. lonicera. This suckering bush belongs to the Caprifoliaceae family and has a spreading habit and small size. At maturity, it reaches a height of 1.2 m (3.9 ft) and a spread of 2 m (6.6 ft). Its foliage consists of ovate, elongated leaves with pointed tips. The leaves are dark green with a reddish-purple tint in summer and turn purple/orange in autumn. It flowers in July - August. Its pale-yellow flowers, arranged in clusters, bloom on the current year's wood. This Diervilla will provide abundant flowering, even in shaded areas, where it particularly thrives.

This low-maintenance ground cover is suitable for all exposures and soil types, as long as it is not excessively chalky. It has only one requirement, which is well-drained soil. Its compact size makes it ideal for small gardens, enclosed spaces or sloping ground. It retains and stabilises dunes or slopes thanks to its suckers (underground stems bearing roots). It is also an ideal choice for underplanting in woodland areas. It goes well in a rose garden or alongside medium-sized perennials such as Nepetas and shrubs with stems.

This bush was brought back from the Arcadia region during Sieur de Dierville's trip in 1850.