Dwarf Butterfly Bush
By Leslie E. Stevens UCCE Master Gardener
PLANTING ZONE: USDA Zones 6, 7, 8, 9
SIZE: 3-5 ft. tall; 3-4 ft. wide
BLOOM SEASON: Dense, spike like, lavender flowers,early summer to late fall
EXPOSURE: Full sun to partial shade
PRUNING NEEDS: Remove spent flowers to prolong bloom. Cut back canes in late winter to promote fuller new spring growth.
WATER NEEDS: Medium to low; drought tolerant once established.
NARRATIVE: As its name indicates, the dwarf butterfly bush is a miniature version of its much larger 10-12 foot cousins. And like its counterpart, this compact perennial not only fits beautifully into small suburban landscapes, it's a magnet for bees, butterflies and hummingbirds that are attracted to its sweet nectar and colorful blossoms.
NOTE: Although commonly called “butterfly bush,” buddleia varieties should not be confused with Milkweed and Butterfly Weed, which are both members of the Asclepias family. Milkweeds are the only plants Monarch larvae can eat, and therefore are critical to the Monarchs' survival.