Buddleia davidii and its hybrids are fountain-shaped deciduous shrubs
that produce long panicles of tiny, fragrant flowers in summer. The common name,
Butterfly Bush, is inspired by the flocks of butterflies drawn to the flowers.
Plants often blossom the first year after planting. Heights vary with varieties,
from 4 to 7 feet.
Buddleia is at its best in full sun and moist but well-drained soil. Plants
flower on the current season's growth, and bloom more profusely if stems are
pruned back to 12-24 inches as new shoots emerge in spring. In cold-winter climates
such as ours in Connecticut, plants often die back almost to the ground; simply
remove the deadwood in spring. Plants regrow vigorously and produce a spectacular
show in summer, even from such a seemingly unpromising start.
Fertilize once a year, in early spring, with a good organic fertilizer. Plants
are generally untroubled by pests or diseases.
