Species

Buddleja davidiiButterfly Bush

58 other cultivars

shrub

Miss Ruby Butterfly Bush

Buddleja davidii 'Miss Ruby'

The Story

Plant Bio

Buddleja davidii 'Miss Ruby' is a deciduous shrub distinguished by its arching branches, elongated lance-shaped leaves, and clusters of vibrant, deep ruby-red flowers that attract butterflies.

This cultivar is notable for its rich, intense flower color and its ability to bloom profusely from mid-summer to autumn, providing striking visual interest and wildlife support.

Uses & Benefits:

Vivid purple flowers provide visual appeal and fragrance, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies, enhancing garden aesthetics.

Drought tolerant and low-maintenance shrub suitable for water-conservation gardens.

Supports local pollinators, contributing to a healthy ecosystem.

SpeciesBuddleja davidiiButterfly Bush

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

54 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

10+ years

Native To

China

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck well-draining soil around roots for stability.
Mist cuttings if propagating from softwood in spring.
Plant in full sun for best flowering.
Water regularly during first growing season.
Prune after flowering to maintain shape.
Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-draining soil in full sun for optimal blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
Prune in late winter or early spring
Use balanced fertilizer in spring
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms

Don't

Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
Don’t prune in late summer or fall
Never neglect pest monitoring
Avoid planting in poorly drained soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Scented hedgeButterfly attracting border

Companion Plants

Lavender Salvia Echinacea CoreopsisRussian sage

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Miss Ruby Butterfly Bush questions

What zones can Miss Ruby Butterfly Bush grow in?

Miss Ruby 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 Miss Ruby Butterfly Bush deer resistant?

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

When does Miss Ruby Butterfly Bush bloom?

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

Does Miss Ruby Butterfly Bush need full sun?

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

Is Miss Ruby Butterfly Bush drought tolerant?

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