It grows naturally in China. Its height is 3-5 m. It is a fast growing shrub. The leaves are opposite ovate-lanceolate lanceolate, 5-10 cm long, pointed at the tip, wedge-shaped at the base of the leaf, very slightly toothed on the leaf margin, dark green and hairy on the upper side of the leaf, white to light green on the lower side, felt-like hairy. Flowers are fragrant. It is located on the shoot of the last year.

It takes place in panicle-shaped flower boards 10-30 cm long, consisting of many flowers standing upright or hanging downwards. In garden forms, the color of the flowers can be white, blue, pink or deep red. The petal tube is 1 cm long. It blooms between July and September. Fruit is capsule-shaped. 6-8 mm long. Most of the butterfly bushes grow in sunny, warm locations and on hillsides and are resistant to winters and frosts, although they grow in temperate zones.

Buddleja davidii ‘Ile de France’ is a cultivar obtained in France. It is 2.5 m tall. The shoots of the broad, upward-growing shrub hang downwards. It has rather small leaves. The 30-35 cm long, 4 cm wide, dark purple flowers are very few on the lower branches of the plant but very dense on the upper branches.

Where did Buddleja davidii come from?

Buddleja davidii, commonly known as the butterfly bush, is native to several regions in Asia. Its natural range includes parts of China, specifically in the Sichuan and Hubei provinces, as well as areas of Tibet. The plant is also found in some neighboring regions of India.

Buddleja davidii was introduced to Western horticulture in the late 19th century when it was brought to Europe, primarily for its attractive flowers and its ability to attract butterflies. The plant’s ease of cultivation, fast growth, and beautiful, fragrant flowers have made it a popular garden shrub in many parts of the world. Over time, it has become naturalized in various countries, including the United States and parts of Europe, where it is sometimes considered invasive due to its prolific self-seeding and rapid spread in the wild. As a result, in some regions, efforts have been made to control its growth to protect native ecosystems.

Information about Buddleja davidii

Buddleja davidii, commonly known as the butterfly bush, is a popular deciduous shrub known for its attractive, fragrant flowers and its ability to attract butterflies and other pollinators. Here’s some information about this plant:

1. Appearance: Buddleja davidii is a medium to large-sized shrub that can reach heights of 6 to 10 feet (1.8 to 3 meters) or even taller under favorable conditions. It has arching branches with lance-shaped, gray-green leaves. The plant’s leaves are often covered with fine hairs, giving them a somewhat silvery or fuzzy appearance.
2. Flowers: The butterfly bush is most renowned for its showy, fragrant flowers. The flowers are typically clustered together in long, slender spikes at the tips of the branches. These flower spikes can be various colors, including shades of purple, pink, white, and sometimes yellow, depending on the cultivar. The flowers are rich in nectar, making them highly attractive to butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.
3. Butterfly Attraction: As the common name suggests, Buddleja davidii is a favorite plant for attracting butterflies. Various butterfly species, including monarchs, swallowtails, and painted ladies, are often seen feeding on its nectar. It also appeals to other pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.
4. Cultivars: Over the years, numerous cultivars of Buddleja davidii have been developed with different flower colors, growth habits, and sizes. Some popular cultivars include ‘Black Knight’ (deep purple flowers), ‘Sungold’ (yellow flowers), ‘Pink Delight’ (pink flowers), and ‘Royal Red’ (dark red flowers).
5. Growing Conditions: Butterfly bushes are relatively easy to grow and are adaptable to a wide range of soil types, but they prefer well-drained soil. They thrive in full sun and are relatively drought-tolerant once established. Pruning in late winter or early spring helps maintain their shape and encourages new growth and more flowers.
6. Invasiveness: Buddleja davidii has become invasive in some regions, particularly in parts of North America and Europe. It self-seeds easily and can spread rapidly, which can outcompete native plant species and disrupt local ecosystems. In some areas, steps have been taken to control its growth and prevent it from becoming invasive.
7. Uses: In addition to its value as a garden ornamental and for attracting pollinators, some Buddleja davidii species have been used in traditional herbal medicine for various purposes. However, it’s important to exercise caution and seek expert guidance before using any plant for medicinal purposes.
8. Conservation: In regions where Buddleja davidii has become invasive, it is important to manage its growth to protect native plant species and ecosystems. Gardeners can choose sterile cultivars to help mitigate the risk of self-seeding, and local authorities may encourage responsible cultivation and management practices.

Buddleja davidii is a beautiful and versatile shrub with its striking flowers and butterfly-attracting qualities. However, its potential for invasiveness in some areas highlights the importance of responsible cultivation and management. Where does the Buddleja davidii bush plant grow?  >>