Butterfly Bush Buddleja davidii Peacock = 'Peakeep' (PBR) (English Butterfly Series)

Water

The Butterfly Bush should be watered deeply once a week during dry periods, ensuring that the water reaches the roots. This may equate to about 1-2 gallons depending on the size and maturity of the plant and the environmental conditions. During the growing season, it's crucial to maintain a consistent watering schedule to promote healthy growth, but the soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. In hot, dry periods, more frequent watering may be necessary. It's important to avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant.

Light

Butterfly Bush thrives in full sun conditions, which means it requires at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for planting would be an open space away from taller trees or buildings that could cast shade. However, afternoon shade can be beneficial in extremely hot climates to prevent scorching.

Temperature

Butterfly Bushes are hardy and can survive temperatures down to around 20°F but prefer a growing environment where the temperature ranges between 60°F and 85°F. They can tolerate heat quite well, but excessive cold can damage or kill the plant.

Pruning

Pruning the Butterfly Bush is essential to promote vigorous growth and abundant blooming. It should be pruned in late winter or early spring, cutting back last year's growth to around a foot from the ground. This helps to maintain a more compact shape and encourages new blooms, as the plant flowers on new wood.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for the Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii 'Peacock') should be well-draining and fertile, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix consisting of loam, peat, and perlite or coarse sand in equal parts will provide the necessary drainage and nutrients. Adding organic compost to the mix will further enhance soil quality to support healthy growth.

Repotting

Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii 'Peacock') generally does not need frequent repotting as it's often grown outdoors. However, if grown in containers, repot every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and provide room for growing roots.

Humidity & Misting

Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii 'Peacock') is tolerant of a range of humidity levels and does not require high humidity. Average ambient outdoor humidity is sufficient for healthy growth, making special humidity adjustments unnecessary in most garden settings.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place near a sunny window and ensure good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, provide mulch, and allow space for growth.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

Buddleja davidii, commonly known as Butterfly Bush, begins its life as a seed, which germinates in warm, moist soil in spring. Once sprouted, the seedling rapidly develops into a young plant with a robust root system and foliage. As it matures, the Butterfly Bush enters its vegetative stage, growing vigorously and producing dense clusters of foliage. During the flowering phase, usually from early summer to fall, it blooms with vibrant, conical flower clusters that attract butterflies and other pollinators. After pollination, the plant sets seed, which can be dispersed by the wind or by animals, completing the reproductive cycle. In winter or unfavorable conditions, the plant may die back, only to regrow from its roots the following spring, continuing its perennial life cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to summer

• The Buddleja, commonly known as Butterfly Bush, is typically propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. The ideal time to do this is in late summer after flowering has ceased, when the stems are starting to mature but still retain some flexibility. To propagate, a cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) in length should be taken from a healthy part of the plant. The bottom leaves are removed, and the cut end may be dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root development. The prepared cutting is then placed in a well-draining potting mix, with the lower half of the cutting buried in the soil. The pot should be kept in a warm, bright area, but out of direct sunlight, and the soil should be kept consistently moist until roots have established, after which the young plant can be gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions before planting out.