Buttonbush Cephalanthus occidentalis

Names

• Family

  Rubiaceae.

• Synonyms

  Buttonbush, Honey Bells, Button Willow, Globe Flower, Little Snowball, Button-ball.

• Common names

  Cephalanthus sphærocephalus, Cephalanthus occidentalis var. pubescens, Cephalanthus occidentalis f. pubescens, Cephalanthus occidentalis var. californicus, Cephalanthus occidentalis var. mexicanus.

Toxicity

• To humans

  The plant commonly known as buttonbush is not widely considered toxic to humans. However, ingestion of any part of the plant, particularly in large quantities, could potentially cause stomach upset, vomiting, or diarrhea due to the mild toxicity of some of its components. It is advisable to avoid consuming parts of the buttonbush plant.

• To pets

  Buttonbush is considered toxic to pets, with dogs and cats being among the animals that could be affected if they ingest the plant. Symptoms of buttonbush poisoning in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, and depression. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious symptoms such as difficulty breathing, weakness, and even seizures. Immediate veterinary attention is recommended if a pet has ingested any part of a buttonbush plant.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  6-12 feet (1.8-3.7 meters)

• Spread

  6-12 feet (1.8-3.7 meters)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  5-11

• Native area

  North America

General Benefits

• Wildlife Attraction: Cephalanthus occidentalis, commonly known as buttonbush, is a valuable source of nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, enhancing local biodiversity.
• Water Tolerance: Buttonbush thrives in wet environments, making it ideal for planting in areas with poor drainage or alongside ponds and waterways.
• Erosion Control: Its dense root system helps to stabilize soil and control erosion, especially on riverbanks and wetlands.
• Landscape Aesthetics: With its unique spherical flower clusters, glossy leaves, and attractive form, buttonbush adds visual interest to garden landscapes and natural areas.
• Habitat Provision: The shrub provides cover and nesting sites for birds and other wildlife, contributing to a healthy ecosystem.
• Riverbank Stabilization: By planting buttonbush along rivers and streams, it can help maintain bank integrity against the erosive action of moving water.
• Education and Research: Buttonbush is often used in educational settings and research projects to study wetland habitats and plant-pollinator interactions.

Medical Properties

• Antipyretic: Cephalanthus occidentalis, commonly known as Buttonbush, has been used traditionally to reduce fever.
• Emetic: Historical use of Buttonbush includes inducing vomiting to purge the body of toxins.
• Expectorant: The plant has been used to promote the discharge of mucus from the respiratory tract.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Cephalanthus occidentalis, commonly known as Buttonbush, has been utilized in butterfly gardens as it attracts a wide variety of pollinators, including butterflies and bees, which are enticed by its nectar-rich flowers.
• Buttonbush is often incorporated into rain gardens due to its tolerance for wet conditions, which helps in managing stormwater runoff and improving water quality.
• In landscape design, Buttonbush is used for its unique spherical flower heads, which add an ornamental value to water features and pond edges.
• The dense branches of Buttonbush make it suitable as a privacy screen or hedge in wet areas where other shrubs might not thrive.
• Buttonbush wood, being very tough and resistant, has been historically used for making small wooden articles, such as tool handles, which require durability.
• Due to its extensive root system, Buttonbush is often planted for soil stabilization along riverbanks and streams, preventing soil erosion.
• Some wildlife enthusiasts plant Buttonbush to provide nesting sites and cover for birds, as its thicket-like growth offers protection and habitat.
• Traditionally, the fibrous bark of Buttonbush was sometimes used for crafting ropes and twine by indigenous peoples.
• In large ponds or lakes, Buttonbush can be used as a natural method to provide fish habitat, offering cover and breeding spots for various aquatic species.
• Buttonbush is utilized in educational settings such as school gardens or outdoor classrooms, as it serves as an example of a native plant supporting local ecosystems.

Feng Shui

The plant commonly known as Buttonbush is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Buttonbush is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Uniqueness: The distinctive globe-shaped flowers of Cephalanthus occidentalis, commonly known as Buttonbush, represent uniqueness or standing out from the crowd.
• Attraction: Buttonbush is known to attract a variety of wildlife, symbolizing magnetic charm and the ability to draw others in.
• Healing: Native Americans used Buttonbush for medicinal purposes, and thus it can symbolize healing and the alleviation of pain.
• Adaptability: As a plant that thrives in various wetland environments, Buttonbush symbolizes adaptability and resilience in different life conditions.