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Butterfly Bush

Butterfly Bush

Buddleja davidii

shrub☀️ full sun💧 low waterZone 5aZone 9b

A vigorous deciduous shrub prized for its long spikes of fragrant flowers in shades of purple, pink, white, or blue that attract butterflies and other pollinators. It blooms prolifically from midsummer through fall and thrives in hot, dry locations.

Overview

Form
Upright
Growth Rate
fast
Size
6–12′ tall × 4–15′ wide
Dormancy
deciduous

Tolerances & Soil

Zone 5aZone 9b
1471013
ColderWarmer
Zone range: Zone 5a to Zone 9b

Seasonality

Bloom Season

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Season of Interest

SummerFall

Shrub

Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.

Succession Role

pioneerearly successional

Native Range

Central and western China

Function & Care

pollinator nectarywildlife benefit

Establishment & Care

Establishment
easy
Maintenance
moderate
Propagation
seed, cutting

Notable Cultivars

'Black Knight' and 'Royal Purple' are among the most popular, selected for deep purple-violet flowers. 'White Profusion' and 'Peace' offer white blooms for a softer aesthetic.