Miss Molly Butterfly Bush
Buddleja davidii 'Miss Molly'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
60 inches
Width
60 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
China
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Buddleja davidii is a deciduous shrub known for its slender, arching branches and narrow, grey-green leaves. It produces conical clusters of fragrant flowers that are highly attractive to butterflies. 'Miss Molly' is a compact cultivar distinguished by its vibrant, sangria-red flower clusters, which are sterile or produce very little seed, reducing its invasive potential.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
- Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Position in full sun for best flowering performance.
Pro Tip
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot and prune annually for best blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Prune after flowering to shape the shrub
- Feed with balanced fertilizer in spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering ❌
- Don't prune in late fall or winter
- Skip fertilizing during dormant season
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
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Miss Molly Butterfly Bush questions
What zones can Miss Molly Butterfly Bush grow in?
Miss Molly 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 Molly Butterfly Bush deer resistant?
Yes — Miss Molly Butterfly Bush is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Miss Molly Butterfly Bush bloom?
Miss Molly 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 Miss Molly Butterfly Bush need full sun?
Miss Molly Butterfly Bush does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Miss Molly Butterfly Bush drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Miss Molly 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'
Bicolor Butterfly Bush
Buddleja davidii 'Bicolor'
Butterfly Bush
Buddleja davidii
Butterfly Bush
Buddleja davidii 'Butterfly Haven'
Butterfly Bush Sky Blue
Buddleja davidii 'Sky Blue'
Keep exploring
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Miss Molly 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.
