Species

Buddleja davidiiButterfly Bush

58 other cultivars

shrub

-in- Butterfly Bush

Buddleja davidii '-in-'

The Story

Plant Bio

Deciduous shrub known for its long spikes of fragrant flowers that attract pollinators.

Often referred to as the butterfly bush due to its ability to attract numerous species of butterflies.

Uses & Benefits:

Buddleja davidii offers vibrant, fragrant flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds, enhancing garden aesthetics and ecological health.

Provides quick coverage for fences and walls, serving as a natural privacy screen.

Supports pollinator populations by providing abundant nectar sources.

SpeciesBuddleja davidiiButterfly Bush

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

60 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

10+ years

Native To

China and Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Late summer – Early fall

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny location with well-drained soil for planting.
Tuck seeds or cuttings into moist soil in early spring or fall.
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist during establishment.
Provide support if necessary to help the shrub grow upright.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring for vigorous growth.
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new blooms.

Pro Tip

Use organic compost to enrich soil and promote healthy flowering.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the plant
Apply balanced fertilizer annually

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not prune in late summer or fall
Avoid planting in shady areas

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

Butterfly‑attracting hedgeScented borderColorful backdrop

Companion Plants

Lavender Echinacea Coreopsis Salvia Rudbeckia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

-in- Butterfly Bush questions

What zones can -in- Butterfly Bush grow in?

-in- 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 -in- Butterfly Bush deer resistant?

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

When does -in- Butterfly Bush bloom?

-in- Butterfly Bush typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does -in- Butterfly Bush need full sun?

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

Is -in- Butterfly Bush drought tolerant?

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