mountain bush honeysuckle

Mountain bush honeysuckle, scientifically known as Diervilla rivularis, is a species of low shrub belonging to the honeysuckle family, Caprifoliaceae. Native to eastern North America, it is often mistaken for true honeysuckle (Lonicera) species, some of which are invasive.1

These deciduous perennials feature oval leaves and clusters of tubular flowers at their branch tips, typically blooming in early summer with yellow or reddish-yellow blossoms. They spread via underground stems called rhizomes and form patches in dry, rocky areas. The flowers are attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds and are often used in native landscaping. The genus Diervilla includes three species, with D. rivularis being similar to D. lonicera but distinguished by its larger size and more pointed leaves.1