Deciduous Shrubs (Flowering) – Common Butterfly Bush

Botanical name: Buddleja daividd

Beginner friendly?: Yes

Average size at maturity: 3 – 12 ft in height and in width

Bloom time: Flowers all summer into the fall

Hardy zone: Zones 7-10

Flower color: White, purple, pink, blue

Foliage color: green

Growth rate: about 2 feet a year

Pruning needs: Cut the shrub back to about 2 feet in height in the spring, as soon as you notice new growth emerging.

Propagation methods: cut a stem just below a node and place in water until roots start to emerge

Landscape use: Border or bed

Light needs: Full sun, at least 6 hours a day

Special features: Attracts hummingbirds

Water needs: Deep soak once or twice a week, irrigation is suggested for the summer months

Fertilizing needs: In the spring/summer, use a slow-release and organic fertilizer to promote more blooms during the shrub-growing season

Best time to plant: Plant in early spring or fall

Best type of soil: clay

Companion plants: coneflower, asters, butterfly weed, lilacs, milkweed, roses

Toxicity level: not toxic to humans or pets

Invasive species: no