Deciduous Shrubs (Flowering) – Dwarf Butterfly Bush

Botanical name: buddleja davidii ‘SMNBDBT’

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: 2-3 ft in height and in width

Bloom time: Early summer to first frost

Hardy zone: Zones 5-9

Flower color: Blue, pink, white, purple

Foliage color: Green

Growth rate: Up to 2 ft 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 beds

Light needs: Full sun, 6 hours a day

Special features: Attracts hummingbirds

Water needs: Low to average watering, soil can be dry once established

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: spring to midsummer

Best type of soil: clay

Companion plants:dianthus, coneflowers, yarrow, red hot pokers and sedum

Toxicity level: not toxic to humans or pets

Invasive species: no