Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Diervilla splendens 'El Madrigal'
Nightglow Bush Honeysuckle
- Family
- Caprifoliaceae
- Height
- 2 to 3 feet
- Width
- 2 to 3 feet
- Flower color
- Intense yellow
- Foliage color
- Dusky red
- Bloom time
- Spring
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Low water usage
- Maintenance
- Low; requires occasional to manage spreading
- Growing zone
- USDA Zones 3 to 8
- Wildlife
- Attracts pollinators, butterflies, and hummingbirds; deer resistant
About this plant
Diervilla splendens 'El Madrigal' is a compact deciduous shrub celebrated for its dramatic, deep burgundy foliage that becomes even more vibrant in the fall. Its trumpet-shaped yellow flowers, blooming from late spring into summer, create a bold contrast against the rich leaves and serve as a valuable nectar source for pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The multi-season appeal of this bush honeysuckle makes it a standout choice for colorful landscape displays.
'El Madrigal' thrives in a range of challenging conditions, including dry or clay soils, and is typically unbothered by deer. Its compact growth habit lends itself well to use as a low hedge, container plant, or a focal point in foundation plantings. 'El Madrigal' adds a touch of drama and vibrant contrast to gardens, especially when paired with plants featuring golden or chartreuse foliage.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Waterwise Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Borders
Companion plants
Oleaster · Mexican orange blossom · Sneezeweed · Black-eyed Susan · Sea thrift · Common sage
Design tip
Dusky burgundy foliage gives this compact shrub strong color even when it is not flowering. Pair it with golden or chartreuse foliage to sharpen the contrast, while the intense yellow flowers introduce a second layer of color that carries the combination into the flowering season.
