Fountain Butterfly Bush
Buddleia alternifolia
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
144 inches
Width
144 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate, drought tolerant once established
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
China
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Buddleia alternifolia, commonly known as the alternate-leaved butterfly bush, is a deciduous shrub distinguished by its slender, arching branches and narrow, lance-shaped leaves. It produces clusters of fragrant, pale purple flowers that attract butterflies. This species is notable for its early flowering period and its ability to tolerate a range of soil conditions, making it a versatile choice for wildlife gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into moist soil in spring.
- Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
- Place in full sun for best flowering.
- Prune after flowering to encourage new growth.
- Fertilize with balanced fertilizer in early spring.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture.
Pro Tip
Prune hard after flowering to promote bushy growth and abundant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Prune annually after flowering
- Use balanced fertilizer in spring
- Mulch to conserve moisture
Don't
- Overwater, causing root rot ❌
- Ignore pruning, which can lead to leggy growth
- Use high nitrogen fertilizer late in season ❌
- Plant in shady spots for best results ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Fountain Butterfly Bush questions
What zones can Fountain Butterfly Bush grow in?
Fountain 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 Fountain Butterfly Bush deer resistant?
Yes — Fountain Butterfly Bush is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Fountain Butterfly Bush bloom?
Fountain Butterfly Bush typically blooms in late spring to early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Fountain Butterfly Bush need full sun?
Fountain Butterfly Bush does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Fountain Butterfly Bush drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Fountain Butterfly Bush handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Buddleia to compare
Pugster Pink Butterfly Bush
Buddleia davidii 'Pugster Pinker'
Grand Cascade Butterfly Bush
Buddleia davidii 'Grand Cascade'
Butterfly Bush Purple Prince
Buddleia davidii 'Purple Prince'
Honeycomb Butterfly Bush
Buddleia davidii 'Honeycomb'
Pugster Blue Butterfly Bush
Buddleia davidii 'Pugster Blue'
Butterfly Bush Attraction
Buddleia davidii 'Attraction'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Fountain Butterfly Bush with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
