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Buddleia

Buddleja davidii

Buddleja davidii Buddleja davidii
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Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
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Contents

Plant Profile

Flowering Months:
JAN  FEB  MAR  APR  MAY  JUN  JUL  AUG  SEP  OCT  NOV  DEC
Order:
Lamiales
Family:
Scrophulariaceae (Figwort)
Also in this family:
Balm-leaved Figwort, Caucasian Mullein, Common Figwort, Dark Mullein, Foxglove, Great Mullein, Green Figwort, Hoary Mullein, Hungarian Mullein, Moth Mullein, Orange Ball Tree, Orange Mullein, Purple Mullein, Trailing Snapdragon, Twiggy Mullein, Water Figwort, Water Mudwort, Welsh Mudwort, White Mullein, Yellow Figwort
Type:
Deciduous shrub
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Maximum Size:
8 metres tall
Habitats:
Gardens, hedgerows, roadsides, scrub, walls, wasteland, woodland.

Flower:
֍
Purple, 4 petals
 
Dense spikes of purple flowers, sometimes white.
Fruit:
A small capsule which is about 1cm long and up to 2mm wide. The capsule is filled with many seeds.
Leaves:
Deciduous shrub with long, narrow, elongated leaves. The leaves are borne together in pairs along its long arching woody stems.
Aroma:
Strongly fragrant flowers which attract many butterflies.
Other Names:
Buddleja, Butterfly Bush, Summer Lilac.
Frequency (UK):
Abundant  

Other Information

Summary

Buddleja davidii, also known as summer lilac or butterfly bush, is a species of flowering plant in the family Scrophulariaceae. It is native to China, but has been introduced to other parts of the world and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant. B. davidii is a deciduous shrub that grows to a height of up to 3 meters. It has narrow, green leaves and small, purple, pink, or white flowers that bloom in the summer. The plant is popular with gardeners due to its ability to attract butterflies and other pollinators and is often used in landscaping as a border plant or as a specimen plant. However, it can be invasive in some areas and has the potential to displace native vegetation.

Blog

Buddleja davidii: The Butterfly Bush

Buddleja davidii, also known as the Butterfly Bush, is a species of flowering shrub that is native to China and widely cultivated in many other parts of the world. This hardy and versatile plant has gained popularity among gardeners and landscapers due to its attractive and long-lasting flowers, its ability to attract pollinators like butterflies and bees, and its ease of care.

Flowers and Foliage

Buddleja davidii is known for its large clusters of fragrant, nectar-rich flowers that bloom in late summer and early autumn. The flowers come in a variety of colors, including shades of pink, purple, yellow, and white, and they can grow up to 8 inches in length. The foliage of the butterfly bush is green and lance-shaped, and it provides a nice backdrop for the flowers.

Attracting Wildlife

One of the main reasons that Buddleja davidii is so popular is its ability to attract pollinators like butterflies and bees. The nectar-rich flowers provide a source of food for these insects, which can help to promote a healthy ecosystem in your garden. In addition, the butterfly bush can also provide habitat for other beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, lacewings, and moths.

Care and Maintenance

Buddleja davidii is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow and care for. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil, and it can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils. This plant is also drought-tolerant and can be left without water for extended periods of time. Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring, cutting back the previous year's growth to about 6 inches from the ground.

Invasive Species Concerns

While Buddleja davidii is a popular and attractive plant, it has become a concern in some areas as an invasive species. In some regions, it has escaped cultivation and has established itself in wild areas, where it can outcompete native plants and disrupt local ecosystems. If you are planting butterfly bush in an area where it is not native, it is important to be aware of its invasive potential and to monitor its growth to ensure that it does not spread beyond your property.

Growing Buddleja davidii

Buddleja davidii is easy to grow from cuttings or seeds, and it can be propagated by rooting the cuttings or sowing the seeds in well-draining soil. When planting from seeds, it is best to start them indoors in the spring and then transplant them outside after the last frost. When planting from cuttings, it is best to take the cuttings in the late summer or early autumn and root them in a mixture of sand and peat moss. Once established, the butterfly bush will grow quickly and can reach a height of up to 10 feet and a spread of up to 15 feet.

In addition to its ease of care, Buddleja davidii is also a very adaptable plant. It can grow in a range of soils and can tolerate both dry and damp conditions. It is also resistant to many pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners.

Uses for Buddleja davidii

Buddleja davidii is not only attractive, but it also has many practical uses. The nectar-rich flowers make it a popular choice for use in cut-flower arrangements, and the dried flower spikes can be used for dried flower arrangements as well. In addition, the butterfly bush can be used to create a natural privacy screen or as a specimen plant in a mixed border.

Varieties of Buddleja davidii

There are many varieties of Buddleja davidii, each with its own unique flower color and growth habit. Some of the most popular varieties include:

  • 'Lochinch': This variety has soft-pink flowers and a compact growth habit, making it ideal for small gardens.

  • 'Royal Red': This variety has deep-red flowers and a vigorous growth habit, making it ideal for use as a privacy screen.

  • 'White Profusion': This variety has pure-white flowers and a vigorous growth habit, making it ideal for use in a mixed border.

  • 'Pink Delight': This variety has soft-pink flowers and a compact growth habit, making it ideal for small gardens.

In conclusion, Buddleja davidii is a versatile and attractive plant that is easy to grow and care for. With its wide range of uses and its ability to attract pollinators, it is a valuable addition to any garden. Whether you are planting it for its beauty, its fragrance, or its practical uses, you are sure to enjoy the many benefits that this plant has to offer.

Designing with Buddleja davidii

Buddleja davidii can be used in a variety of garden designs, from large, informal landscapes to small, intimate courtyards. When designing with butterfly bushes, there are a few things to keep in mind:

  1. Height: This plant can grow to be quite tall, so it's important to consider the placement of the bush in your garden design. You may want to place it near the back of a border or near a fence to take advantage of its height.

  2. Spread: Buddleja davidii can also have a substantial spread, so it's important to consider the amount of space it will need when it is fully grown. You may want to space the bushes out or plant them in a location where they will have plenty of room to grow.

  3. Color: With its wide range of flower colors, Buddleja davidii can add a splash of color to your garden design. Consider pairing it with other flowering plants that bloom at different times of the year to provide a long-lasting display of color.

  4. Location: This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, so be sure to choose a location that will provide the right amount of light for optimal growth.

When designing with Buddleja davidii, consider the unique features of this plant, such as its height, spread, color, and light requirements. By taking these factors into account, you can create a garden design that not only looks beautiful, but also provides a habitat for pollinators like butterflies and bees.

Companion Plants for Buddleja davidii

When planting butterfly bush, consider pairing it with other plants that complement its height, spread, and flowering time. Some good companion plants include:

  1. Salvias: These plants have a similar growth habit to Buddleja davidii and bloom at the same time, providing a long-lasting display of color.

  2. Daylilies: These plants have a similar height and spread to Buddleja davidii and their flowers bloom at different times, providing a long-lasting display of color.

  3. Ferns: These shade-loving plants provide a nice contrast to the sunny, open growth habit of Buddleja davidii and can help to create a cool, shaded area in your garden.

When selecting companion plants for Buddleja davidii, consider the growth habits and light requirements of each plant, as well as their bloom time and flower color. By selecting companion plants that complement the butterfly bush, you can create a beautiful and harmonious garden design.

In conclusion, Buddleja davidii is a versatile and attractive plant that can be used in a variety of garden designs. Whether you are planting it for its beauty, its fragrance, or its ability to attract pollinators, this plant is sure to add beauty and value to your garden. With proper care and attention, you can enjoy the many benefits of Buddleja davidii for years to come.

Caring for Buddleja davidii

Caring for Buddleja davidii is relatively easy, making it a great option for both experienced gardeners and those just starting out. Here are some tips for caring for your butterfly bush:

  1. Watering: This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require a lot of water. However, it is important to water it regularly during its first growing season to help it establish its roots. After that, you can water it occasionally, especially during periods of drought.

  2. Pruning: Pruning is an important part of caring for Buddleja davidii. Prune the plant back by half its height in early spring to promote bushy growth and to remove any winter damage. You can also remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches at this time.

  3. Fertilizing: Fertilize your butterfly bush in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.

  4. Pests and Diseases: Buddleja davidii is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it is still important to keep an eye out for any signs of trouble. Common pests include aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Common diseases include powdery mildew and root rot.

By following these simple care tips, you can help ensure that your Buddleja davidii stays healthy and attractive for many years to come.

In conclusion, Buddleja davidii is a great plant for gardeners of all levels of experience. Its ease of care, adaptability, and ability to attract pollinators make it a valuable addition to any garden. Whether you are planting it for its beauty, its fragrance, or its practical uses, you are sure to enjoy the many benefits that this plant has to offer. With proper care and attention, you can keep your butterfly bush healthy and beautiful for years to come.

Buddleja davidii and its impact on the environment

Buddleja davidii is an invasive plant species in many parts of the world, including Europe, New Zealand, and some parts of North America. When introduced to a new area, it can quickly outcompete native plants and create monocultures, altering the natural balance of ecosystems. In addition, the plant produces large amounts of seeds that are easily spread by birds, further contributing to its spread.

The negative impact of Buddleja davidii on the environment has led many conservation organizations and government agencies to take action to control its spread. In some areas, the plant is considered a noxious weed and efforts are made to remove it from natural areas.

However, there are steps that gardeners can take to minimize the impact of this plant on the environment:

  1. Choose alternative species: If you live in an area where Buddleja davidii is considered invasive, consider choosing a different species of butterfly bush that is native to your area or not known to be invasive.

  2. Plant with care: If you must plant Buddleja davidii, be sure to plant it in a contained area, such as a pot or a bed surrounded by a barrier, to prevent it from spreading.

  3. Remove seed heads: To prevent the plant from spreading, remove the seed heads before they mature and disperse their seeds.

By following these simple steps, gardeners can enjoy the beauty and benefits of Buddleja davidii without contributing to its negative impact on the environment.

In conclusion, while Buddleja davidii is an attractive and versatile plant, it is important to be aware of its impact on the environment in certain parts of the world. By choosing alternative species, planting with care, and removing seed heads, gardeners can help to minimize the negative impact of this plant on the environment.

Video

Buddleia filmed at Wigan Locks on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal on the 7th August 2022.

 

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Distribution Map

Reproduced by kind permission of the BSBI.

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