Overview

Buddleja alternifolia is a deciduous shrub in the genus Buddleja, part of the Scrophulariaceae family. Buddleja alternifolia grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include ornamental and wildlife garden. It is native to China North-Central, China South-Central, China Southeast, Inner Mongolia, Qinghai and Tibet.

About

Buddleja alternifolia, known as alternate-leaved butterfly-bush, is a species of flowering plant in the figwort family, which is endemic to Gansu, China. A substantial deciduous shrub growing to 4 metres (13 ft) tall and wide, it bears grey-green leaves and graceful pendent racemes of scented lilac flowers in summer.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Buddleja alternifolia

About the genus

Buddleja is a genus comprising over 140 species of flowering plants endemic to Asia, Africa, and the Americas. The generic name bestowed by Linnaeus posthumously honoured Adam Buddle (1662–1715), an English botanist and rector, at the suggestion of William Houstoun. Houstoun sent the first plants to become known to science as buddleja to England from the Caribbean about 15 years after Buddle's death.

Wikipedia contributors, "Buddleja", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Buddleja

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Buddleja

Sunlight

full sun, partial shade

Soil type

well-drained

Soil moisture

moderate

UK hardiness

H5

Plant details

Buddleja alternifolia size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

deciduous shrub

Suggested uses

ornamental, wildlife garden

Native to

China North-Central, China South-Central, China Southeast, Inner Mongolia, Qinghai, Tibet

Fragrance

scented

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Buddleja alternifolia

Cultivation

Prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Tolerates drought once established.

Pruning

Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.

Propagation

softwood cuttings in early summer

Frequently asked questions