Diervilla is an outstanding plant, but the species isn't super showy. So we wanted to introduce some flashier options to help them get a little more popular in the ornamental world. The Kodiak® series does just that: the plants have the durability you expect of a Diervilla but more color than you're used to.
 |
| Kodiak® Orange Diervilla |
Kodiak® Orange Diervilla has nice orange new growth and outstanding fall color. It would be a good native alternative to burning bush. Kodiak® Red Diervilla has more red foliage in spring and fall. Both these and Kodiak® Black Diervilla have yellow summer flowers that support pollinator populations. All grow 3-4' tall and wide.
 |
| Kodiak® Red Diervilla |
Bring it.
When we introduced our Kodiak® Diervilla we knew we needed a name that illustrated how tough this native plant is. Kodiak seems to do the job.The Kodiak archipelago extends south from Anchorage into the Gulf of Alaska. That sounds pretty harsh to me. While Diervilla isn't native to this region, the Kodiak bear is, and it's a pretty intimidating creature. Males can weigh more than 1300 pounds, which I think is heavier than my car.
 |
| Kodiak® Black Diervilla |
Diervilla is also intimidating, but in a good way. It can take sun, it can take shade - even dry shade - and is an all-around durable landscape plant. Kodiak® Red and Kodiak® Orange are hardy to USDA Zone 4, while Kodiak® Black goes into Zone 5. One more thing: they have good deer-resistance, too. See what I mean? Your tricky landscaping problem is no match for the mighty Diervilla.
They have a softer side, too: pollinators love them. When those yellow flowers bloom in midsummer the bees go crazy. There's a lot of talk these days about using native plants and supporting pollinator populations, both worthwhile goals. But the plants need to look good, too. That's why we're so happy with these plants, and hope you will be, too.
Plant of the Week is written by Jane Beggs-Joles
