Butterfly Bush
Buddleia
The Butterfly Bush is one of the hardiest and most prolific of all summer blooming shrubs. It would be an easy care addition to any garden, especially if you want to attract a wide variety of butterflies throughout the summer. Flowers come in many colors, primarily various shades of reds and blue- violets, but also include a variety called Bicolor, that is light violet and orange on the same bloom. The long flower panicles, some as long as 12 inches, are also very fragrant. Heights range from the dwarf 'Lo and Behold' at a mature height of 2-3 feet, to the very tall 'Royal Red' at 8-10 feet. Most varieties average about 6 feet, and all are very amenable to heavy pruning, so you can keep them in bounds in your own garden if you so desire.
These shrubs grow best in full sun, are not picky about soil, but like all perennials thrive in better soil. Once established, these woody shrubs are also very drought tolerant, though they will need watering more often the first year if rain is lacking in your area. A slow release fertilizer applied in spring will be most appreciated by your specimen, giving it a head start on vigor for the summer ahead.
While these bushes attract many species of butterflies, they also bring hummingbirds to your garden as well, while deer are not attracted at all. For an easy care, fragrant, beautiful addition to your perennial garden, these shrubs are a great choice.
By: Sandy Weinkam
A.J. Rahn Greenhouses
These shrubs grow best in full sun, are not picky about soil, but like all perennials thrive in better soil. Once established, these woody shrubs are also very drought tolerant, though they will need watering more often the first year if rain is lacking in your area. A slow release fertilizer applied in spring will be most appreciated by your specimen, giving it a head start on vigor for the summer ahead.
While these bushes attract many species of butterflies, they also bring hummingbirds to your garden as well, while deer are not attracted at all. For an easy care, fragrant, beautiful addition to your perennial garden, these shrubs are a great choice.
By: Sandy Weinkam
A.J. Rahn Greenhouses
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