Species

Buddleja davidiiButterfly Bush

58 other cultivars

shrub

Polka Dot Butterfly Bush

Buddleja davidii 'Polka Dot'

The Story

Plant Bio

Buddleja 'Bicolor' is a deciduous shrub with arching branches and fragrant, conical flower panicles that are highly attractive to butterflies.

This unique cultivar features flowers that open lavender-blue and mature to a butterfly-bush-orange, creating a striking bicolored effect on each flower spike.

Uses & Benefits:

Buddleja davidii Polka Dot offers vibrant, fragrant flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds, adding lively color and movement to gardens.

Provides excellent screening and privacy as a dense, fast-growing shrub.

Supports pollinators by providing nectar-rich flowers during peak blooming season.

SpeciesBuddleja davidiiButterfly Bush

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

84 inches

Width

84 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

China

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck well-draining soil around the roots for stability.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during propagation.
Plant in full sun to encourage vibrant blooms.
Water deeply once a week during dry spells.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Prune after flowering to shape and promote new growth.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and full sun for best flowering performance.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
Prune after flowering to maintain shape
Mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don't prune in late fall or winter
Avoid using heavy clay soil without amendment

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant butterfly-attracting shrubColorful hedge with fragrant bloomsFocal point in mixed borders

Companion Plants

Lavender Salvia Echinacea Rudbeckia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Polka Dot Butterfly Bush questions

What zones can Polka Dot Butterfly Bush grow in?

Polka Dot 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 Polka Dot Butterfly Bush deer resistant?

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

When does Polka Dot Butterfly Bush bloom?

Polka Dot 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 Polka Dot Butterfly Bush need full sun?

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

Is Polka Dot Butterfly Bush drought tolerant?

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