Botanical Name: Diervilla lonicera
Family: Caprifoliaceae
Genus: Diervilla
Species: D. lonicera
Kingdom: Plantae
Order: Dipsacales
Synonyms : D. canadensis. Willd. D. humilis. Pers.
Common Names: Bush Honeysuckle, Northern bush honeysuckle ( low bush honeysuckle, dwarf bush honeysuckle, yellow-flowered upright honeysuckle)
Habitat ; Diervilla lonicera is native to eastern N. America – Newfoundland to Florida. It grows in dry gravelly soils in woodlands.
Description:
Diervilla lonicera is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 1 m (3ft 3in) at a medium rate. This particular species is known for the following characteristics: branches lying close to the ground, fibrous roots, pale yellow flowers, and dry, woody fruit. It’s simple leaves are placed in an opposite arrangement. As the seasons change, so do the leaves’ colours: initially green, the leaf gradually deepens to a dark red. The flowers are in full bloom between early July and early August; the woody seeds are fully matured by September in preparation for dispersal.
Diervilla lonicera has protogynous flowers (initially female-dominant plant), is well-adapted for pollination, and its stigmas remain receptive after anthesis (fully functioning flower)
Cultivation:
Landscape Uses:Border, Container, Ground cover, Massing, Rock garden, Woodland garden. Succeeds in a moist fertile well-drained soil and is not fussy as to soil type. Succeeds in full sun or partial shade. Plants are hardy to about -30°c. This species is a spreading suckering plant, it makes a useful understorey planting in woodlands. Any pruning can be carried out in the winter or after flowering. 2 or 3 year old stems can be removed in order to promote a more shapely bush. Flowers are produced on the current seasons growth. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus. Special Features: North American native, Attractive flowers or blooms.
Propagation :
Seed – we have no information on this species but suggest sowing the seed in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe if possible, otherwise in late winter or early spring. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Division of suckers in the spring. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame. Cuttings of mature wood, late autumn in a frame.
Medicinal Uses:
Diuretic; Galactogogue; Laxative; Narcotic; Ophthalmic.
The leaves are diuretic. A compound decoction has been used in the treatment of stomach aches. This contrasts with a report that the leaves contain a narcotic principle, inducing nausea. The plant is used as a gargle in catarrhal angina. The root is diuretic, galactogogue, laxative and ophthalmic. A cooled infusion has been used as an eyewash for sore eyes. The bark is laxative and ophthalmic. An infusion has been used to increase milk flow in a nursing mother and as an eyewash for sore eyes.
Other Uses:….Soil stabilization…….The plants stoloniferous habit makes it useful for soil stabilization on banks and slopes
Disclaimer : The information presented herein is intended for educational purposes only. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplement, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.
Resources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diervilla_lonicera
http://www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Diervilla+lonicera
