Rooting Butterfly Bush Cuttings: Softwood in Spring

Butterfly bush (Buddleia davidii) roots readily from softwood cuttings taken in late spring.

Step-by-Step

1. Cut 4–6″ tips of new, non-flowering shoots.
2. Make a slanted cut just below a node.
3. Strip all leaves except the top two.
4. Dip base in rooting hormone (Rootone); tap off excess.
5. Stick in moist potting mix (perlite/peat 1:1).
6. Cover pot with a clear plastic bag (supported by stakes) for humidity.
7. Place in bright, indirect light.
8. Water only when surface feels dry—don't overwater.
9. Roots form in 3–4 weeks. Transplant to individual pots.

Tips for Success

• Take 5–10 cuttings—expect 50–70% success.
• Hardwood cuttings in late fall work but are slower.
• Don't use flowering stems—they root poorly.

With a mini-greenhouse bag, you'll have plenty of new butterfly bushes to share.