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common buttonbush

Scientific Name: Cephalanthus occidentalis

Family: Rubiaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Tree, Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Common Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis)

The Common Buttonbush, scientifically known as Cephalanthus occidentalis, is a captivating native shrub found throughout eastern North America. Its unique spherical flower heads make it a standout in wetland environments. It's also referred to by several other common names.

Considerations for Pets

  • The plant produces seeds.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Cephalanthus occidentalis L.
  • Synonym: Cephalanthus occidentalis var. pubescens
  • Common Names: Common Buttonbush, Buttonbush, Button Willow, Button Ball, Riverbush, Honey-bells, Honeyballs, Eastern Buttonbush
  • Family: Rubiaceae (madders)
  • Genus: Cephalanthus L.
  • Species: Cephalanthus occidentalis L.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to eastern North America, ranging from Nova Scotia west to Minnesota and south.
  • Commonly found in swamps, near ponds and streams, cypress ponds, and along the margins of lakes and rivers.
  • Frequently found in wet or mucky soils and standing water.
  • Present in Florida nearly throughout and in the Edwards Plateau and South Texas Plains.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Typically a multi-stemmed shrub or small tree, ranging from 2-10 meters (6-33 feet) in height, occasionally reaching 15 meters (49 feet) or 20 feet.
  • Deciduous shrub.
  • Leaves are opposite or in whorls near the stem tips, simple, entire, ovate to elliptic or oblong, with an acute apex. Leaf blades can grow up to 8 inches long.
  • Produces spherical "buttons" of white flowers.
  • Flowers bloom in August, and seeds ripen in October.
  • Hardy to zone (UK) 6, tolerating temperatures down to -20°F (USDA zones 4-10).

Ecological Role and Interactions

  • Seeds are consumed by ducks, geese, and shorebirds.
  • Important for wood ducks for brood rearing and hiding.
  • Attracts butterflies, moths, and bees, making it a pollinator favorite.
  • Provides food and shelter for many water-loving songbirds such as Yellow Warblers and Common Yellowthroats.
  • White-tailed deer munch on it.

Quirky Facts

  • The Latin name of the genus, Cephalanthus, means "flower head."

Further Information

  • Plant Symbol: CEOC2
  • Contributed by: USDA NRCS National Plant Data Center
  • Encyclopedia of Life
  • Discover Life
  • English Wiktionary
  • American Forests National Tree Register