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Buddleia davidii

Buddleia davidii

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Butterfly Bush

Buddleia davidii 'Peacock'

This sun-lover comes in hues from pure white to deepest purple. From midsummer until frost, butterfly bush earns its name as hordes of winged beauties flit from flower to flower in search of nectar. The lanceolate leaves are 10 to 12 inches long and white or grayish underneath. The honey-scented flowers are deep purple and grow in spikes, from July to October.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsThis plant and its hybrids attract butterflies and bees greatly and are valuable shrubs for town and suburban gardens and for seaside planting. Listed as a weed in some parts of the U.S. and Canada.

CareCut back hard in spring. Hardy below Zone 6, but most aerial portions will winter kill and need to be hard pruned in spring.

PropagationCuttings that are made from half-ripe or semi-woody side shoots, 5 or 6 inches long, can be inserted in a closed cold frame, or outside under a hand light in July or early August.

ProblemsCapsid bug, caterpillars, weevils, mullein moth and spider mites. Fungal leaf spot and dieback are possible.

  • Genus : Butterfly bush
  • Zones : 6, 7, 8, 9
  • Plant Height : 6 to 10 feet
  • Plant Width : 6 to 10 feet
  • Characteristics : Attracts Hummingbirds
  • Tolerance : Deer Tolerant
  • Moisture : Dry to Medium
  • Bloom Time : Early Fall, Late Summer, Summer
  • Growth Rate : Fast, Moderate
  • Light : Full Sun
  • Maintenance : Moderate
  • Plant Type : Shrubs
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest

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