Buddleia | An Invitation of Fragrance Where Butterflies Gather

Buddleia, with its delightful fragrance and elegant panicle-shaped blossoms, is not only a source of beauty in the garden but also a magnet for butterflies and bees, which is why it is often referred to as the “Butterfly Bush.”

In this article, I will introduce the charm of Buddleia, which blooms continuously from summer to autumn, and explain in detail everything from its basic information to cultivation tips.

Basic Information

• Scientific name: Buddleja davidii
• Family: Scrophulariaceae
• Origin: China
• Appearance: Buddleia produces clusters of elongated flower spikes in a wide range of colors, including purple, blue, pink, white, and yellow. The blossoms emit a sweet fragrance that attracts butterflies and bees. The plant often grows to a height of 2–3 meters, making it a striking accent in any garden.
• Blooming season: From June to October, with flowers that last for an extended period.

Cultural Significance Around the World

Buddleia’s butterfly-attracting quality has earned it the name “Butterfly Bush,” and it is widely planted in gardens across the United Kingdom and the United States.

In the UK, it is especially popular as a plant that enriches garden ecosystems. In the US, it is valued as a flower that invites wildlife into the garden and is particularly appreciated by environmentally conscious gardeners.

Historical Background

Discovered in China in the 18th century, Buddleia gained attention in Europe as an ornamental plant in the 19th century.

During the Victorian era in England, the introduction of rare plants into gardens was fashionable, and Buddleia’s rarity made it increasingly popular. Its reputation as a butterfly-attracting plant soon spread, leading to its presence in both private gardens and public parks.

Because of its rapid growth and resilience, Buddleia was also planted in abandoned sites and along railway lines in Europe and the United States, becoming recognized as a symbol of vitality. Today, it is often seen in urban vacant lots and other naturalized spaces.

Gardening Advice

Buddleia thrives in sunny locations and adapts well to a variety of soils as long as drainage is adequate.

It is drought-tolerant and requires relatively little maintenance, making it a beginner-friendly shrub. Watering is necessary only when the soil surface becomes dry, though additional watering during extreme summer heat will improve flowering.

Spring and autumn are ideal seasons for planting, with spring planting especially beneficial as it promotes root establishment and growth in subsequent years.

Applying slow-release fertilizer in early spring and additional monthly feeding during the flowering season will encourage vigorous growth.

Pruning is also essential: trimming old or crowded branches each winter encourages new buds and ensures abundant flowering the following year. Although relatively hardy, Buddleia benefits from winter protection in colder climates.

Conclusion

Buddleia is a captivating plant that brings vibrant color and sweet fragrance to the garden while attracting butterflies and bees.

It thrives with plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil, making it highly recommended even for beginners.

I encourage you to add Buddleia to your garden or balcony and enjoy the harmony it creates with nature.

Haru

管理人

Fioria では、花の文化や歴史、ガーデニングの楽しみ方など、花にまつわるさまざまな情報をお届けします。花が好きな方はもちろん、「花のことをもっと知りたい」「日々の暮らしに彩りを添えたい」と思う方も、当サイトを通して、花の美しさとその奥に広がる世界をぜひ楽しんでください。