Overview & Description

Kodiak® Jet Black Bush Honeysuckle (Diervilla rivularis ‘SMNDRS’) is a tough, adaptable deciduous shrub prized for its exceptionally dark, glossy foliage that emerges bright green in spring before maturing to a deep, lustrous near-black purple-black hue that holds its colour throughout the summer. In early to mid-summer, it produces clusters of small, tubular, sulphur-yellow flowers that contrast strikingly with the dark leaves, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. As autumn approaches, the foliage transitions to brilliant shades of burgundy, orange, and red, offering an extended season of interest. This native cultivar is valued for its vigorous, suckering growth habit and excellent tolerance to heat, humidity, and drought.

Growth & Size

This variety exhibits a dense, mounding, spreading growth habit. It is a fast-growing shrub, typically reaching a mature size of about 36 – 48 inches in height with a spread of 36 – 48 inches.

Additional Notes

It blooms from early to mid-summer through fall. Hardy to Zone 3, it is drought tolerant once established, adapts to a wide range of soil conditions, including clay and rocky soils, and thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is resistant to deer and rabbits, tolerates urban pollution, and requires minimal maintenance. An outstanding choice for mass plantings, erosion control on slopes, foundation plantings, woodland edges, and pollinator gardens where dark, dramatic foliage and bright yellow flowers are desired.