Diervilla splendens Kodiak Red

Diervilla 'Kodiak Red' is part of a series of recent varieties selected in the USA for their compact habit, long flowering period, ease of cultivation, and remarkably coloured foliage. This  is an interesting bush from spring to autumn, due to the dominant red tones on its leaves. Slightly suckering, this close relative of weigela likes shade and blooms there for several weeks in summer, in the form of sulphur yellow clusters, well highlighted by the purplish colours of its foliage. It will thrive in all exposures, including shade, and in areas of the garden that are sometimes difficult to landscape.

The Diervilla Kodiak Red is a horticultural selection derived from the Diervilla rivularis, a species native to the undergrowth of the southern United States. This suckering bush of the Caprifoliaceae family has a bushy but crossing habit, with multiple stems originating from the base and the ability to cover the ground quite effectively. When fully grown, it will reach 1.20m (3 ft 11 in) in all directions, with its lateral growth being fairly easy to control by removing suckers or planting other vigorous undergrowth plants alongside it. Its foliage is composed of oval, elongated leaves with pointed tips, slightly wavy. Its leaves are reddish in spring, then partially green in summer, before turning to brighter red or even purplish hues in autumn. At the end of the season, the leaves dry up and fall off. Its summer flowering, appreciated by pollinating insects, takes place from July to August-September. Its pale yellow flowers, gathered in clusters, will bloom on the previous year's wood, with a lovely purple colour. This Diervilla will provide you with abundant flowering, even in shaded exposure and in the roots of trees where it particularly thrives. The vibrant and contrasting colours bring a lot of personality to the whole. Diervilla rivularis is less resistant to water shortages than its cousin the Diervilla x splendens, but it can tolerate occasional dry periods.

A low-maintenance ground cover, it is suited to all exposures and all types of soil without excessive limestone and not too dry. Its small growth is ideal for small gardens, enclosed spaces, or steep slopes. It retains and stabilises slopes thanks to its suckers (underground stems carrying roots). It is also an ideal choice for filling in an undergrowth. It will work very well in a rose garden or in combination with medium-sized perennials such as Nepetas and shrubs with colourful stems, such as dogwoods.