Butterfly Bush: Beautiful Pollinator Magnet with Invasive Tendencies

Buddleia davidii (butterfly bush, summer lilac)—fragrant, hummingbird/butterfly magnet from China. But aggressive seeding (birds, deer, dogs spread seeds) prompts Washington state to consider Class C noxious weed listing alongside English ivy and Scotch broom. Threatens wetlands, especially creeks and streams.

Control: prune and deadhead through long season—enhances blooms and season length. Bag deadheaded flowers (don't compost) to prevent seed spread.

Popular Varieties

Dartmoor (hybrid, blackberry scent, pink/purple, 6'), asiatica (white, great cut flower, 15'), Opera (hybrid, fuchsia, 6'), Royal Red (maroon, glows in sun, 6', award winner), Purple Prince (very fragrant, upright, 10'). Climate and zone determine success—consult nursery catalogs.