Bush honeysuckle : low- maintenance versatile plant

Bush honeysuckles are plants that require little maintenance and are very versatile. They can grow quickly to reach heights of 3 to 5 feet. The best cultivated types for Minnesota are Northern bush honeysuckle (Diervilla lonicera) and Southern bush honeysuckle (Diervilla sessilifolia). The leaves and flowers of Northern bush honeysuckle are green and deep red.

Bush honeysuckles (Diervilla species) are easy to grow. They stay low to the ground and spread through suckers. These plants can handle many different soil types and grow in all sunlight conditions.

Because they spread through suckers, bush honeysuckles are great for planting in large groups, forming hedges, or on slopes for soil support. They are also tolerant of drought and compacted soil, making them useful for various landscaping tasks.

In the wild, deer do eat bush honeysuckle, but they usually don't bother with it when it’s planted in yards or gardens.