Buddleia davidii: The Classic Butterfly Bush

Buddleia davidii – Butterfly Bush Extraordinaire

The quintessential butterfly bush, Buddleia davidii delivers honey-scented, deep purple flower spikes from July to October, drawing hordes of butterflies and bees. Lanceolate leaves (10–12 inches long) are grayish beneath, adding texture.

Important Considerations

While invaluable for town, suburban, and seaside gardens, this species is listed as a weed in parts of the U.S. and Canada due to its aggressive self-seeding. Check local regulations before planting.

Care & Management

Cut back hard in spring. In zones below 6, most top growth winter-kills and requires hard pruning. Propagate from half-ripe side shoots (5–6 inches) in July–August. Pests include capsid bug, caterpillars, weevils, mullein moth, spider mites; fungal leaf spot and dieback possible.

At a Glance

• Height/Spread: 6–10 ft.
• Light: Full sun
• Moisture: Dry to medium
• Bloom: Summer to early fall (purple, salmon)
• Note: Invasive potential in some regions