SafePlants

Buddleja davidii: The Butterfly Bush

The Buddleja davidii, commonly known as the butterfly bush, is a popular shrub known for its ability to attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and other beneficial insects.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant is a shrub with lance-shaped leaves.

Considerations for Children

• This plant is often present in home gardens.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Buddleja davidii
• Common Name: Butterfly Bush
• Genus: Buddleja (also historically given as Buddlea)
• Family: Not specified in the provided text.

Distribution and Habitat

• Originally from China.
• Thrives in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 10.

Ecological Role

• Considered by some to be invasive.
• Mentioned as a nonnative species, suggesting potential negative impacts on local ecosystems.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Fast-growing, deciduous shrub.
• Large, arching shrub that produces masses of flowers in midsummer to fall.
• Flower colors include blue, pink, red, violet, yellow, and white.
• 'Nanho Purple' is a compact variety with lance-shaped leaves and fragrant, light purple flowers in dense cylindrical panicles.
• B. davidii is a shrub or small multi-stemmed tree.

Quirky Facts

• Its flower spikes drench the air with a fruity scent.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• A magnet for butterflies and hummingbirds.
• Attracts beneficial insects.

Cultivation and Care

• Needs pruning each Spring.
• Must not be pruned until after the winter to avoid frost damage.
• Ideal for a wide range of positions in the garden, providing they are sunny.
• Suitable for large and small gardens, pots, or containers.

Further Information

• Annotated bibliography on the ecology and management of invasive species exists.