Buddleja Davidii: Your Questions Answered (By Ferb Vu)
For years, Buddleja davidii, also known as the Butterfly Bush, has been a vibrant presence in my garden. It’s a continual source of fascination, not just for me but for the butterflies it attracts in droves. Over the years, I’ve fielded many questions about this remarkable plant, so I decided to compile a one-stop resource to address them all.
114 Species in Genus Buddleja
What is Buddleja Davidii?
Buddleja davidii is a fast-growing, deciduous shrub native to China. It’s known for its long, arching branches adorned with clusters of fragrant flowers that bloom in a spectrum of colors, including purple, pink, red, white, and even bi-colored varieties. The flowers are a magnet for butterflies, earning the plant its popular nickname.
Is Buddleja Davidii Easy to Grow?
Absolutely! Buddleja davidii is a gardener’s delight. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It’s moderately drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal maintenance. Deadheading spent flowers encourages continuous blooming throughout the summer and fall.
Tip: Prune Buddleja davidii in late winter or early spring to maintain its desired shape and stimulate bushier growth.
How Big Does Buddleja Davidii Get?
Buddleja davidii can grow quite large, reaching heights of 8 to 10 feet and a similar spread. However, it can be easily controlled through pruning.
Consideration: If you have limited space, there are dwarf Buddleja davidii varieties available that mature at a more compact 3 to 4 feet.
Is Buddleja Davidii Invasive?
This is a common concern. Buddleja davidii can be invasive in some areas, readily spreading by seed. However, there are non-invasive sterile cultivars available that are a responsible choice for gardeners who want to enjoy the plant’s beauty without the risk of unwanted spread.
Recommendation: Check with your local nursery or gardening center to find non-invasive Buddleja davidii varieties suitable for your region.
What’s the Difference Between Buddleja Davidii and Butterfly Bush?
Buddleja davidii is the botanical name for the Butterfly Bush. So, they are one and the same!
What are Some Companion Plants for Buddleja Davidii?
Buddleja davidii pairs beautifully with a variety of plants. Here are a few suggestions:
- Lavender (Lavandula): The complementary colors and fragrant blooms create a stunning combination.
- Veronica*: Upright Veronica varieties provide a nice contrast to Buddleja davidii’s arching form.
- Catmint (Nepeta): Catmint’s low-growing habit adds textural interest and attracts even more pollinators.
- Roses (Rosa): Roses and Buddleja davidii can bloom together, creating a luxurious and colorful display.
*Note: When referring to multiple plant genera, the plural form is not italicized (e.g., Veronica).
How Do I Attract Butterflies with Buddleja Davidii?
Buddleja davidii is a natural butterfly magnet. Here are some additional tips to maximize your butterfly garden:
- Plant Buddleja davidii in a sunny location sheltered from strong winds.
- Avoid using pesticides near your Buddleja davidii, as they can harm butterflies.
- Provide shallow puddles with smooth rocks for butterflies to drink.
What are Some Popular Buddleja Davidii Varieties?
There are many stunning Buddleja davidii varieties available, each with unique characteristics. Here are a few of my favorites:
- ‘Black Knight’: This variety boasts dark purple, almost black flowers.
- ‘Butterfly Blue’: True to its name, ‘Butterfly Blue’ features vibrant blue flowers.
- ‘Harlequin’: This bi-colored variety displays a captivating combination of purple and white flowers.
- ‘Lochinvar’: For a touch of orange, ‘Lochinvar’ offers stunning orange blooms.
- ‘White Profusion’: This aptly named variety produces an abundance of pure white flowers.
Tip: When selecting a Buddleja davidii variety, consider your desired flower color, mature size, and whether you need a non-invasive cultivar.
Final Thoughts on Buddleja Davidii
Buddleja davidii is a remarkable plant that offers a combination of beauty, ease of care, and an irresistible allure to butterflies. With its long blooming season and minimal maintenance requirements, it’s a welcome addition to any garden. By following the tips provided, you can enjoy the vibrant presence of Buddleja davidii and the delightful dance of butterflies in your own backyard.
