It isn’t surprising that a shrub called the Butterfly Bush (Buddleia or buddleja) are extraordinary magnets for butterflies and other pollinators. This impressive 
flowering shrub produces colorful flowers in late summer and fall. Their distinctive blossoms come in a range of colours from white and yellow to orange, pink, violet and purple and are displayed in long panicles at the end of the branches. The flowers are rich in nectar and their honey-like fragrance makes them highly attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds, moths, bees, and other beneficial insects.
Originally, the Butterfly Bush was only available as a tall plant with an average height of 7 feet or more. This colourful, long-lasting shrub is now available in many shorter cultivars that are easier to accommodate in the average home garden. The height makes these a great screen for summer privacy and color, while the smaller varieties can be tucked into any sunny garden. When planting, you should be mindful of the size of the variety you have chosen and plant it accordingly.
Buddleia is a very hardy plant as it can tolerate less than ideal conditions which makes it very easy to grow. Butterfly Bush does prefer a sunny location, requiring about 8 hours of sun per day. Like most plants, they do not like wet feet and an area with good drainage is the best location.
As in most cases when planting shrubs and trees, we suggest spreading mulch to support the growth of your buddleia. Mulch is very helpful in retaining moisture in the summer time and it also adds protection to the roots during those frosty winter months. When spread thick enough, mulch can help keep grass and weeds at bay.
Once established, these plants grow quite easily so you can just sit back and enjoy the show!
