Bush-honeysuckle
Diervilla lonicera
Last reviewed: July 2026
Diervilla lonicera is a native deciduous shrub found throughout eastern North America that produces yellow tubular flowers from June through August. This hardy bush-honeysuckle attracts bees, butterflies, and moths while tolerating various growing conditions.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Bush-honeysuckle as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–48" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CT, DE, GA, IA and 20 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, moths
Deer
Resistant (per Prairie Moon Nursery)
Bush-honeysuckle is a compact native shrub that produces small yellow tubular flowers throughout summer. It forms a neat, rounded mound that works well in foundation plantings and mixed borders. The plant is low-maintenance and adapts to various light conditions.
Growing Bush-honeysuckle
Grow Bush-honeysuckle in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 24 to 48 inches tall and spread 24 to 48 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bush-honeysuckle is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
Host plant for spring azure, hummingbird moth.
The tubular flowers attract native bees, butterflies, and moths during its long summer bloom period. This native shrub provides important nectar sources when many other plants have finished flowering.
Common questions
- When does Diervilla lonicera bloom?
- Bush-honeysuckle blooms from June through August, producing small yellow tubular flowers that attract various pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Diervilla lonicera?
- This native shrub attracts bees, butterflies, and moths with its summer blooms, making it valuable for pollinator gardens.
- Where is Diervilla lonicera native?
- Bush-honeysuckle is native to much of eastern North America, from Maine south to Georgia and west to North Dakota, including the Great Lakes region and Appalachian states.
- What growing conditions does Diervilla lonicera prefer?
- This adaptable shrub tolerates full sun to partial shade and medium to low water conditions, making it suitable for various landscape situations.
- Is Bush-honeysuckle toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Bush-honeysuckle as toxic to livestock.
- Is Bush-honeysuckle HOA-friendly?
- Bush-honeysuckle is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Bush-honeysuckle? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz