White Butterfly Bush Buddleja fallowiana var. alba
ABOUT
Buddleja fallowiana var. alba, commonly known as White Butterfly Bush, features long and arching branches that have a graceful appearance. Its most striking characteristic is the elongated clusters of flowers that are a creamy white in color. The flowers are small, numerous, and tubular, with a delightful fragrance that attracts butterflies, hence the name. This variety typically blooms during the summer months, displaying its white flowers prominently against the backdrop of its foliage. The leaves of the White Butterfly Bush are narrow and lance-shaped with a grayish-green hue, complementing the white flowers. They are arranged oppositely along the branches, creating a lush and full appearance. The stems and leaves may have a downy or fuzzy texture, which is a common trait among many varieties of butterfly bush. The White Butterfly Bush is often celebrated for its ornamental appeal and its ability to attract a variety of pollinators including butterflies and bees. With its showy flowers and pleasant scent, it is a popular choice for gardens where a visually engaging and wildlife-friendly plant is desired. It is a deciduous shrub, meaning it sheds its leaves annually, and it will exhibit different characteristics seasonally, with the most notable display being the summer bloom of white flowers.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Scrophulariaceae
Synonyms
White Woolly Butterfly Bush, Alba Butterfly Bush, White Buddleia
Common names
Buddleja fallowiana var. alba.
ToxicityTo humans
The Buddleja, commonly referred to as the Butterfly Bush, is not well-documented for causing significant toxic reactions in humans when touched or ingested. However, as with many plants, it is possible for individuals to experience mild irritation or an allergic response based on personal sensitivities. It is always prudent to exercise caution and keep plants out of reach of children who might accidentally ingest plant parts. If ingestion or adverse reaction does occur, seeking medical advice is recommended.
To pets
The Butterfly Bush is not known to be highly toxic to pets. However, it is generally advisable to prevent pets from ingesting plants as they could potentially cause gastrointestinal upset or an allergic reaction in some animals. If a pet does consume parts of the Butterfly Bush and shows symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual behavior, it is important to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Grey-green
Flower color
White
Height
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Spread
6 feet (1.83 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Wildlife: The plant is known for attracting butterflies, bees, and other pollinators, enhancing biodiversity in the garden.
- Low Maintenance: Not needing much care, Buddleja fallowiana var. alba is suitable for gardeners seeking plants that do not require constant attention.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, the plant has a good tolerance for dry conditions, making it suitable for arid climates or water-wise gardens.
- Fast Growing: The plant can grow quickly, which is beneficial for gardeners looking to establish a mature garden in a relatively short period.
- Decorative Flowers: Produces attractive white flowers that can add aesthetic value to a garden or landscape.
- Adaptable: Buddleja fallowiana var. alba is adaptable to a variety of soil types, although it prefers well-drained soils.
- Privacy Screen: When grown in groups, it can act as a privacy screen or windbreak in the landscape.
- Aromatic: The flowers may produce a light fragrance that can be pleasant in the garden setting.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers seasonal interest with its summer blooming period and sometimes a second bloom in milder climates.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Buddleja fallowiana var. alba, commonly known as the "White buddleja," can be used in butterfly gardens to attract and support butterfly populations due to its nectar-rich flowers.
- In landscaping, the White buddleja is used as a focal point or feature shrub due to its striking white blooms and attractive foliage.
- The plant can be incorporated into mixed shrub borders for contrasting colors and textures alongside other shrubs and perennials.
- The White buddleja can be used in large containers on patios or balconies where its flowers can provide a fragrant and decorative element.
- Some gardeners use the branches of White buddleja for informal flower arranging, as the long panicles of blooms add height and interest to arrangements.
- The plant's silvery foliage can be used to provide contrast in moon gardens, which are designed to be enjoyed in the evening and night hours.
- Cultivating the White buddleja can contribute to wildlife gardening strategies, as it provides nectar for bees and other beneficial insects.
- The plant's dense growth habit makes it suitable for use as an informal hedge or privacy screen in garden settings.
- Its ability to thrive on poor soils and in tough conditions can be utilized for erosion control on slopes and banks.
- In colder climates, the White buddleja can be used as a seasonal plant that dies back in winter but can easily be grown again from its hardy rootstock in spring.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiButterfly Bush is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityButterfly Bush is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal and Rebirth: Buddleja, also known as the Butterfly Bush, attracts butterflies which are symbols of transformation. This reflects the idea of new beginnings and rejuvenation.
- Attraction and Magnetism: Since Butterfly Bush is known to attract a variety of insects, particularly butterflies, it symbolizes allure and the ability to attract others.
- Conservation: Buddleja fallowiana var. alba is often associated with environmental conservation efforts due to its role in supporting butterfly populations, representing a commitment to preserving nature.
WaterThe Butterfly Bush (Buddleja fallowiana var. alba) requires moderate watering, meaning you should water it once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, during active growth in spring and summer, this may mean watering once every week. Each watering session should thoroughly moisten the soil, providing approximately one to two gallons of water, depending on the size of the bush and the environmental conditions. During winter, reduce the frequency to once every two weeks or even less if the plant is in a dormant state. Always ensure that the Butterfly Bush is planted in well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging.
LightThe Butterfly Bush thrives best in full sun conditions, meaning it requires more than 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth. Position the plant in a spot in the garden that receives unfiltered sunlight throughout the day. Dappled light conditions might be tolerated, but flowering is more prolific with stronger sunlight exposure.
TemperatureThe Butterfly Bush is tolerant of a range of temperatures but performs best when the temperature is between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. While it can tolerate temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit, it's not frost-hardy and can be damaged by severe cold snaps. To ensure good health and flowering, try to avoid placing the Butterfly Bush in locations where temperatures fall outside these ranges for extended periods.
PruningTo encourage more prolific blooming and maintain an attractive shape, it is advisable to prune the Butterfly Bush annually. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth starts; cut back the previous year's growth to about a foot from the ground. This hard pruning helps stimulate new growth which will bear flowers. Additionally, deadheading spent blooms throughout the growing season can encourage further flowering.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Butterfly Bush (Buddleja fallowiana var. alba) prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A good soil mix might include garden soil, compost, peat moss, and perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage.
RepottingButterfly Bushes are typically repotted every 2-3 years or when they outgrow their current container. Ensure the new pot is only slightly larger with adequate drainage holes.
Humidity & MistingButterfly Bushes are tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels but prefer moderate conditions. No specific humidity level is crucial for their success outside of extreme dryness or dampness.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Butterfly Bush in a sunny spot; ensure it receives ample light.
Outdoor
Plant in a sunny location, protect from harsh winds, and water regularly.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleBuddleja fallowiana var. alba, commonly known as the white butterfly bush, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in well-drained soil in an area with full sun to partial shade. The seedling emerges, developing into a juvenile plant with a small set of true leaves. As the plant matures, it forms a woody structure with branching stems and elongated leaves. During its flowering stage, typically in the summer, it produces white fragrant flowers that attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees. After pollination, flowers develop into small capsules containing seeds, which, when mature, are dispersed to start a new life cycle. The plant is perennial, returning each year to bloom again, with proper pruning encouraging robust growth and flowering.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagation for the Buddleja fallowiana var. alba, commonly known as white butterfly bush, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This is typically done in late summer. To propagate, select healthy semi-hardwood shoots that have begun to mature but are not fully hard. Cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) in length. The lower leaves are stripped off, and the base of the cutting is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. Then, the cuttings are inserted into a well-draining, sterile potting mix. The environment should be kept moist and warm (but not in direct sunlight) to facilitate rooting, which usually occurs in a few weeks.
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