shrub

Butterfly Bush Sky Blue

Buddleja davidii 'Sky Blue'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

84 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate, drought tolerant once established

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial shrub

Native To

China and Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Buddleja davidii 'Sky Blue' is a deciduous shrub known for its arching branches, lance-shaped leaves, and clusters of fragrant, sky blue flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds during summer. This cultivar is distinguished by its vibrant sky blue flower panicles that provide a striking contrast against its dark green foliage, and it has a compact growth habit suitable for smaller gardens.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Bright, fragrant flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds, adding lively movement to gardens.

Drought tolerant, reduces water use, and provides natural privacy screening.

Supports pollinators and promotes biodiversity in urban and rural gardens.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into moist soil in spring.
Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
Prune after flowering to maintain shape.
Fertilize in early spring with balanced fertilizer.
Mulch around base to conserve moisture.
Transplant in early spring or fall for best results.

Pro Tip

Prune back hard in late winter to encourage vigorous flowering.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 💧
Prune after flowering to shape the shrub 🌿
Apply balanced fertilizer annually
Mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don't prune in late fall or winter ❌
Refrain from heavy fertilizing during dormancy ❌

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

Drought-tolerant hedge with fragrant bloomsButterfly and hummingbird attractor in sunny bordersColorful specimen for mixed shrub borders

Companion Plants

Lavender Echinacea Salvia Sedum Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Butterfly Bush Sky Blue questions

What zones can Butterfly Bush Sky Blue grow in?

Butterfly Bush Sky Blue 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 Sky Blue deer resistant?

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

When does Butterfly Bush Sky Blue bloom?

Butterfly Bush Sky Blue 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 Butterfly Bush Sky Blue need full sun?

Butterfly Bush Sky Blue does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Butterfly Bush Sky Blue drought tolerant?

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