Diervilla x splendens Mountaineer® Merlot (`Nontolre’)

Innovative breeding work by Dave MacKenzie of Hortech, Inc. has led to the introduction of this colorful collection of diervilla, a fast-growing, native sub-shrub. Using both northern and southern species, the breeder’s focus is selecting hardy cultivars with interesting foliage colors and a densely mounded habit. Though they tolerate full sun, those with lighter foliage appreciate some afternoon shade. They make great native alternatives to Spiraea and their small, yellow blossoms are a favorite of pollinators. Mountaineer® Merlot forms an upright rounded mound of merlot-red foliage and dark purple stems - the perfect background to make the yellow flowers really pop.