Dwarf butterfly bush (Buddleia davidii) makes a spectacular foundation plant for perennial flower beds. This shrub, which grows from 3-to-5 feet tall, has a rounded form and produces long stalks of fragrant flowers in a variety of colors. Dwarf butterfly bush grows in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 9, but it thrives in mild, Mediterranean climates. It can attain its full size in one season and self-seeds prolifically. In some areas, butterfly bushes have become invasive, escaping into the wild and crowding out native vegetation. Oregon State University Extension Service calls butterfly bush "extremely invasive" in the countryside. Regular pruning not only improves its appearance, but also keeps its aggressive tendencies in check.
Cut dwarf butterfly bush back to the ground in late winter. In colder regions, the plant dies back on its own. Cutting it back encourages lush new growth and a compact form.
Remove spent flowers in the summer to encourage more blooms. Cut the plants back to the nearest outward-facing bud or leaf.
Cut off any seed heads that develop at the end of the growing season. These seed heads are not only unattractive, they also cause seedlings to sprout in your yard and can also be carried into the wild by birds.
Things You Will Need
- Hand pruning shears
- Discard or burn the branches, flowers and seed heads. Do not leave them lying on your property. Branches have been known to root themselves, and seed heads and flowers can produce seedlings, says the Oregon State University Extension. Read labels carefully to ensure that you are buying a hybrid dwarf variety. The original species grows 12-to-15 feet tall and spreads aggressively. "White Ball" (Buddleia davidii "White Ball") is the smallest variety, growing 3 feet tall or less with white flowers. "Ellen's Blue" (Buddleia davidii "Ellen's Blue") grows 4 feet tall and produces violet-blue flowers. "Summer Beauty" (Buddleia davidii "Summer Beauty") also grows 4 feet tall, with pink blooms.
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