Carolina Nature

Trees, Shrubs, and Woody Vines of North Carolina

Smooth Southern Bush-honeysuckle (Diervilla sessilifolia)

Plantae>Magnoliophyta>Magnoliopsida>Dipsacales>Caprifoliaceae>Diervilla sessilifolia Buckley

Smooth Southern Bush-honeysuckle (Diervilla sessilifolia)

An uncommon deciduous small shrub of the southwestern Mountain region of North Carolina, this species of Diervilla is recognized by its smooth leaves and arching square twigs. There are only three species in the genus Diervilla. The other two Diervillas also occur in the NC Mountains: the less common D. lonicera has terete (round) twigs and leaves with ciliate margins; the rare D. rivularis has square stems but densely pubescent branchlets and leaves.

Macon Co., NC 5/14/06.

Smooth Southern Bush-honeysuckle (Diervilla sessilifolia)

The fruits are dry capsules; these are from last year.

Most frequently placed in the honeysuckle family (Caprifoliaceae), Diervilla is sometimes split off into its own family, the Diervillaceae.

Macon Co., NC 5/14/06.

More information:
NC State

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