Butterfly Bush Buddleja davidii

Names

• Family

  Scrophulariaceae

• Synonyms

  Summer Lilac, Butterfly Bush, Orange Eye

• Common names

  Buddleia davidii, Buddleja variabilis, Buddleja shimidzuana, Buddleia shimidzuana, Buddleia variabilis

Toxicity

• To humans

  Butterfly bush (Buddleja davidii) is generally not considered poisonous to humans. However, ingesting any part of the plant may cause mild stomach upset in sensitive individuals. There is no significant toxicity associated with this plant, and severe poisoning is unlikely.

• To pets

  Butterfly bush is not considered highly toxic to pets. However, ingestion can potentially cause gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, in some animals. If you suspect your pet has ingested a large quantity, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Varies

• Height

  6-15 feet (1.8-4.5 meters)

• Spread

  4-15 feet (1.2-4.5 meters)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  5-9

• Native area

  China

General Benefits

• Attracts Pollinators: Buddleja davidii, commonly known as butterfly bush, is highly attractive to butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects, which can aid in the pollination of gardens and natural areas.
• Landscape Beautification: With its vibrant and abundant flowers, butterfly bush can add aesthetic value to landscapes and gardens through its range of colors and attractive growth habit.
• Ease of Care: Butterfly bush is known for being low maintenance, drought-tolerant, and adaptable to various soil conditions, making it a fuss-free option for gardeners.
• Fast Growth: Butterfly bush can grow rapidly and reach full size quickly, making it suitable for new gardens or areas in need of fast coverage.
• Privacy Screening: Due to its size and density of growth, butterfly bush can be used to create natural privacy screens in gardens or along property lines.
• Habitat Creation: Butterfly bush provides shelter and nesting spots for various bird species, thereby enhancing local biodiversity.
• Erosion Control: The plant's root system can help stabilize soil and control erosion on slopes or in areas prone to soil degradation.

Medical Properties

• Anti-inflammatory: Extracts of Buddleja davidii have been traditionally used to reduce inflammation.
• Antibacterial: The plant contains compounds that are reported to have antibacterial properties.
• Antioxidant: Buddleja davidii possesses antioxidant components that may help in protecting cells from oxidative damage.
• Wound healing: There are claims of its use in traditional medicine for aiding in the healing of wounds.
• Immunomodulatory effects: Some studies suggest that Buddleja davidii may have immune system regulating properties.
• Hepatoprotective: There are references to the plant's use in traditional medicine for protecting the liver from damage.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Buddleja davidii, commonly known as Butterfly Bush, can be used in furniture making due to its durable wood.
• The wood of Butterfly Bush can also be utilized in craftwork, especially in making small decorative items, due to its fine grain.
• The plant's branches can be woven into baskets and other artisanal objects, showcasing its flexibility and strength.
• In some cultures, the Butterfly Bush is considered a symbol of rebirth and is planted in commemorative spaces for its spiritual significance.
• The Butterfly Bush is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens to create hedge rows because of its rapid growth and ability to form dense thickets.
• Its nectar-rich flowers can be used to make a sweet, fragrant syrup that can be used in culinary creations or beverages.
• The fibrous stems of Butterfly Bush can be processed into paper or natural textiles, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional materials.
• The dense foliage can provide natural soundproofing when planted along highways or in urban areas with high levels of noise pollution.
• During winter, the dried seed heads of Butterfly Bush can add interesting texture to floral arrangements and wreaths.
• By cultivating Butterfly Bush near beehives, beekeepers can take advantage of its long blooming period to support honey production.

Feng Shui

The Butterfly Bush is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Butterfly Bush is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Transformation: Buddleja davidii, commonly known as the butterfly bush, is a symbol of change and transformation due to its ability to attract butterflies, which are often seen as embodying transformation through their lifecycle.
• Renewal: As the butterfly bush blooms anew each year with vibrant flowers, it symbolizes the idea of renewal and new beginnings.
• Attraction: With its sweet nectar and colorful flowers that lure butterflies, the butterfly bush can represent allure and magnetism.
• Rejuvenation: The plant's rapid growth and its use in landscaping for revitalization signify rejuvenation and restoration.
• Welcoming: As it provides an important food source and habitat for butterflies and other pollinators, the butterfly bush denotes hospitality and a welcoming environment.