Buddleja davidii
shrubZones 5–9deer resistantFast-growing shrub with long panicles of fragrant flowers that attract butterflies in droves. Blooms continuously from midsummer to frost. Easy and rewarding to grow.
Cut all stems back to 12-18 inches from the ground in early spring. Butterfly bush blooms on new wood and performs best when cut back hard.
A single application of balanced fertilizer is sufficient. Avoid over-fertilizing which produces leaves at the expense of flowers.
Remove faded flower spikes to the nearest side branch to encourage continuous reblooming.
Do not cut back in fall. Leave stems standing to provide some winter interest and root protection.
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