shrub

Nanho Blue Butterfly Bush

Buddleia davidii 'Nanho Blue'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

60 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Dry to medium

Humidity

Average garden humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

China, Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic to pets

The Story

Plant Bio

A deciduous shrub with an arching, spreading habit. Features lance-shaped, gray-green leaves and produces dense, conical clusters of fragrant, lilac-blue flowers from mid-summer to fall, which are highly attractive to butterflies. This cultivar is distinguished by its compact size and vibrant blue flower panicles, making it ideal for smaller gardens and borders.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vibrant purple blooms throughout summer, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds, enhancing garden aesthetics.

Drought tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for water-wise gardens and reducing gardener effort.

Supports pollinators and local biodiversity, creating a lively garden ecosystem.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck young plants into well-draining soil in spring.
Water regularly until established, then reduce watering.
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and promote new growth.
Apply mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize with balanced fertilizer in early spring for best blooms.
Watch for pests and treat as needed with organic or chemical solutions.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun for optimal flowering and drought resistance.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry periods 🌱
Prune in late winter to shape and encourage new growth
Mulch annually to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Fertilize early spring with a balanced fertilizer

Don't

Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
Prune in late summer or fall ❌
Ignore pests—monitor regularly ❌
Use heavy soil amendments that impede drainage ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Mulch
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Butterfly-friendly borderDrought-tolerant hedgeColorful focal point

Companion Plants

Lavender Salvia Echinacea Rudbeckia Sedum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Nanho Blue Butterfly Bush questions

What zones can Nanho Blue Butterfly Bush grow in?

Nanho Blue Butterfly Bush is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Nanho Blue Butterfly Bush deer resistant?

Yes — Nanho Blue Butterfly Bush is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Nanho Blue Butterfly Bush bloom?

Nanho Blue Butterfly Bush typically blooms in mid-summer to fall through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Nanho Blue Butterfly Bush need full sun?

Nanho Blue Butterfly Bush does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Nanho Blue Butterfly Bush drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Nanho Blue Butterfly Bush handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.