Diervilla splendens 'Firefly’

Diervilla splendens 'Firefly’: Flickers of Colour from Spring to Fall

Compact, colourful, and exceptionally tough, 'Firefly' lights up the landscape with vibrant foliage that shifts from coppery-red in spring to rich green in summer, finishing with burgundy tones in fall. Soft yellow flowers bloom throughout summer, supporting native pollinators and adding seasonal charm. This native bush honeysuckle thrives in tough conditions—including dry slopes and shaded spots—and is a standout option for low-maintenance designs with high ornamental value.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 60–90 cm (2–3 ft)
• Spread: 90–120 cm (3–4 ft)
• Flower Colour: Soft yellow
• Flowering Period: Early summer to late summer
• Foliage: Copper-red in spring, green in summer, burgundy in fall
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to part shade
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained; drought-tolerant once established

Uses and Benefits: 'Firefly' is ideal for pollinator gardens, slopes, naturalized borders, and mixed low shrub beds. Its compact form and evolving foliage keep it interesting across three seasons, while its adaptability to poor soils and dry shade makes it a workhorse in challenging locations.

Care Instructions: Easy to grow in average, well-drained soil. Prune in early spring to maintain shape or rejuvenate older stems. Requires little watering once established and resists deer browsing naturally.

History: A cultivated form of the native Diervilla splendens, 'Firefly' was selected for its vibrant multi-season foliage and refined habit. Bred for durable landscape performance in northern climates.

Final Thoughts: With flickering colour, tidy size, and unmatched toughness, 'Firefly' is a dependable native shrub that keeps the show going all season long.