The Story
Plant Bio
Buddleja davidii 'Bicolor' is known for its striking two-tone flowers that attract butterflies and other pollinators.
This cultivar features unique bi-colored flower spikes, enhancing its ornamental value.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
72 inches
Width
60 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate, drought tolerant once established
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
10+ years
Native To
China
Toxicity
Can cause skin irritation and stomach upset if ingested.
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil for planting.
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape and promote new growth.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Pinch back young shoots to encourage bushier growth and more flowers.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells to keep soil moist 🌱
- Prune after flowering to shape the shrub and remove dead wood
- Feed with a balanced fertilizer in spring and mid-summer
- Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall or winter, as it can damage the plant
- Refrain from using high-nitrogen fertilizers that promote excessive foliage
- Avoid planting in poorly drained soils
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
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Bicolor Butterfly Bush questions
What zones can Bicolor Butterfly Bush grow in?
Bicolor 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 Bicolor Butterfly Bush deer resistant?
Yes — Bicolor Butterfly Bush is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Bicolor Butterfly Bush bloom?
Bicolor Butterfly Bush typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Bicolor Butterfly Bush need full sun?
Bicolor Butterfly Bush does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Bicolor Butterfly Bush drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Bicolor Butterfly Bush handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Buddleja to compare

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Buddleja davidii 'Pugster Amethyst'

Trio Butterfly Bush
Buddleja davidii 'Trio'

Butterfly Bush Purple Prince
Buddleja davidii 'Purple Prince'

Butterfly Haven Butterfly Bush
Buddleja davidii 'Butterfly Haven'

Hot Raspberry Butterfly Bush
Buddleja davidii 'Hot Raspberry'

Butterfly Bush
Buddleja davidii
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Bicolor 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.



























































