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How to Grow Butterfly Bush

Reviewed by MyLocalPlanting Editorial Team Updated Sources
Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii)

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Plant nursery stock — skip years of growing from seed.

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Supplies You'll Need

Watering Can

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Plant Overview

Scientific Name Buddleja davidii
Category shrub
Type Shrub (nursery stock)
Days to Maturity 90 days
Starting Method Nursery Stock

Growing Requirements

Sun

Full Sun (6+ hours)

Water

Low once established

Spacing

6 ft apart

Height

6-10 ft

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Companion Planting Guide for Butterfly Bush

Discover which plants grow well with Butterfly Bush and which to keep at a distance for a healthier garden →

Seed Saving Guide

Vegetative propagation

Propagate vegetatively, not by seed

Softwood cuttings root in weeks; avoid letting seed heads mature — choose sterile cultivars in regions where Buddleja is listed as invasive.

Butterfly Bush Planting Calendar by Zone

Zone 1a Zone 1b Zone 2a Zone 2b Zone 3a Zone 3b Zone 4a Zone 4b Zone 5a Zone 5b Zone 6a Zone 6b Zone 7a Zone 7b Zone 8a Zone 8b Zone 9a Zone 9b Zone 10a Zone 10b Zone 11a Zone 11b Zone 12a Zone 12b Zone 13a

Butterfly Bush Planting Calendar by State

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Butterfly Bush? +

Plant container-grown or bare-root Butterfly Bush in early spring, 1 weeks after your last frost date — or in early fall once summer heat breaks. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your location.

How long does Butterfly Bush take to grow? +

Butterfly Bush typically blooms in about 90 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Should I start Butterfly Bush indoors or direct sow? +

Neither — Butterfly Bush isn't grown from seed at home. Buy a container-grown or bare-root plant from a nursery and plant it outdoors at the right time for your local frost dates.

How much sun does Butterfly Bush need? +

Butterfly Bush requires full sun (6+ hours) to thrive.

How far apart should I plant Butterfly Bush? +

Space Butterfly Bush plants 72 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

How much water does Butterfly Bush need? +

Butterfly Bush has low once established water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Can you save seeds from Butterfly Bush? +

Butterfly Bush is not typically propagated by seed. Softwood cuttings root in weeks; avoid letting seed heads mature — choose sterile cultivars in regions where Buddleja is listed as invasive.

About Butterfly Bush

Fast-growing arching shrub whose fragrant summer spikes are a pollinator magnet. Plant in spring so it establishes a full season before winter. Buddleja self-seeds invasively in some regions — choose sterile, seedless cultivars where required.

Expect your Butterfly Bush to be ready for harvest in approximately 90 days from planting.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.