butterfly bush (Buddleja davidii 'White Profusion') plant — close-up photo
Easy to grow

butterfly bush

Buddleja davidii 'White Profusion'

Overview

The Butterfly bush (Buddleja davidii 'White Profusion') is an attractive ornamental garden shrub with gorgeous white panicles of delicate flowers. It is a great choice for any garden as it attracts butterflies and provides a wonderful display of flowers and colour throughout the summer months. Its low-maintenance, drought tolerant characteristics make it a great addition to any garden, and an easy to grow plant for beginner gardeners. The rich, sweet fragrance of its flowers will fill your garden with a delightful aroma. This hardy and fast-growing shrub can reach heights of up to 10 feet, so is sure to make an impact in your summer garden.

Care Guide

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Watering

The butterfly bush should be watered deeply twice a week. During summer, water deeply every 4-7 days. During winter, water deeply once a week. Make sure to moisten the entire root zone, and then allow the soil to dry slightly before the next watering. To check if the plant needs water, stick your finger about 2 inches into the soil. If it is dry, it is time to water. During extreme heat, you may need to water more frequently to keep the plant healthy.

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Light

Butterfly bush (Buddleja davidii 'White Profusion') is a plant species that grows best in bright sunlight. This species should get at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to help it reach its full potential. Too much shade can cause the plant to display a slow growth rate and poor flowering. The optimal level of sunlight for 'White Profusion' is 8 to 10 hours of direct sun each day. Plant it in an area of the garden that will receive the early morning sun to help with the development of full flower spikes. This species does best in slightly cooler climates, so a few hours of strong afternoon sun may be too harsh. If planting in an area with hot afternoon temperatures, provide afternoon shade with a structure, such as a trellis or lattice.

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Soil

Well-drained

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Temperature

Hardiness zone 5–9.

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Pruning

Butterfly bush (Buddleja davidii 'White Profusion') should be pruned at the beginning of spring to keep its shape and encourage vigorous new growth. It should also be pruned again in early fall if it becomes overgrown. When pruning, remove all dead, damaged, or diseased wood along with any stems that are thinner than a pencil. Cut back the older stems to about 6-8 inches from the base, to promote new shoots and bushier growth. Avoid pruning newly planted bush until the second year of growth.

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Propagation

Seed Propagation, Greenwood Cuttings, Hardwood Cuttings, Layering Propagation

Uses & Symbolism

Attracts: Hummingbirds, Butterflies.

Diseases & Pests

Common pests: Dieback, Fungal leaf spot, Mites, Deer resistant, Rabbit resistant, Drought resistant .

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