southern bush honeysuckle
Diervilla sessilifolia 'LPDC Podaras' COOL SPLASH
Overview
The southern bush honeysuckle, Diervilla sessilifolia 'LPDC Podaras' COOL SPLASH, is an amazing shrub for all sorts of gardeners and locations! The leaves are a bright blue-green, with showy white flowers in spring that attract butterflies and birds. Not only is it beautiful and full of color, it's quite hardy too, tolerant of dry soil and even deer resistant. It’s perfect for adding texture and interest to your garden with its colorful foliage and nearly deer-proof flowers. With its high drought tolerance, this southern bush honeysuckle is sure to last the test of time in any garden!
Care Guide
Watering
Southern bush honeysuckle (Diervilla sessilifolia 'LPDC Podaras' COOL SPLASH) should be watered 2 to 3 times a week and should receive at least an inch of water each time. During hot or dry weather, it may need to be watered more frequently, especially if it is planted in a sunny spot. Make sure to water the base of the plant and to avoid getting the foliage wet, as this can encourage disease. In winter, reduce watering to once a week or every other week.
Light
Southern bush honeysuckle (Diervilla sessilifolia 'LPDC Podaras' COOL SPLASH) needs at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive. When grown in partial shade, the plant will produce fewer blooms and will be more susceptible to diseases and pests. It is best to give the plant sunlight in the morning and move it to shade in the afternoon when the sun is strongest and hottest. In addition, it is beneficial to rotate the plant periodically to ensure an even distribution of light.
Temperature
Hardiness zone 4–8.
Pruning
Southern bush honeysuckle, also known as Diervilla sessilifolia 'LPDC Podaras' COOL SPLASH, is a deciduous shrub that grows up to 3 feet tall and wide. Pruning should be done to promote vigorous growth and the health of the plant. Prune your bush honeysuckle in late winter before new growth starts. Remove broken or damaged branches, weak or crossing branches, and any dead or diseased growth. Thin out the bush to increase air circulation and reduce disease. Trim the honeysuckle to control its size. To keep your bush’s shape, prune away the center branches to keep the outer stems in an arching shape. Finally, prune off any flowers that may appear in late summer. This will encourage more blooms the following season.
Propagation
Cutting, Layering Propagation, Division, Grafting Propagation
Uses & Symbolism
Attracts: Hummingbirds, Butterflies.
Related plants
Other plants you might like if you grow southern bush honeysuckle.
