Species

Buddleja davidiiButterfly Bush

58 other cultivars

shrub

Butterfly Bush Harlequin

Buddleja davidii 'Harlequin'

The Story

Plant Bio

Buddleia davidii 'Harlequin' is a deciduous shrub with an arching habit, known for its lance-shaped, gray-green leaves with irregular creamy-white margins. From mid-summer to fall, it produces dense panicles of fragrant, reddish-purple flowers.

This cultivar is primarily distinguished by its striking variegated foliage, which provides interest even when the plant is not in bloom. The colorful leaves contrast beautifully with the deep-colored flowers, which are highly attractive to butterflies and other pollinators.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking purple flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds, adding vibrant color and movement.

Drought tolerant once established, requires minimal watering and maintenance.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies, promoting garden biodiversity.

SpeciesBuddleja davidiiButterfly Bush

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

96 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

China, Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck young plants into prepared soil in early spring.
Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
Prune back after flowering to promote new growth.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize with a balanced shrub fertilizer in early spring.
Monitor for pests and treat organically if needed.

Pro Tip

Prune annually to maintain shape and encourage abundant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Prune after flowering to shape the shrub
Apply mulch to conserve moisture
Fertilize with balanced fertilizer in spring

Don't

Avoid heavy pruning in late fall ❌
Don’t overwater, risk root rot
Don’t fertilize excessively to prevent legginess

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid butterfly attractor borderFragrant hedge for privacyColorful focal point in garden beds

Companion Plants

EchinaceaLavender Salvia Coreopsis Gaillardia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Butterfly Bush Harlequin questions

What zones can Butterfly Bush Harlequin grow in?

Butterfly Bush Harlequin 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 Butterfly Bush Harlequin deer resistant?

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

When does Butterfly Bush Harlequin bloom?

Butterfly Bush Harlequin 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 Butterfly Bush Harlequin need full sun?

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

Is Butterfly Bush Harlequin drought tolerant?

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