Buddleia - The Butterfly Bush and Why You Should Plant One in Your Garden

Gardening For Wildlife - In this video we look at the important role that Buddleias play in providing a vital source of nectar for many butterflies and other insects through the summer and autumn months.
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[@damien706]

I had one dropped out of nowhere and after 3 years it's now huge almost as big as the house. I love the smell!! Beautiful

[@Steve-gc5nt]

I popped a tiny buddleja in the garden around the start of first lockdown in 2020. It's over 8' tall now and though going over now has been covered in flowers, white and purple. It's been so good to see it covered in butterflies and even the occasional bee and wasp. We need to do all we can to help these insects. Every garden, no matter how small, can help make a difference.

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

That's so good to hear Steve :) Really pleased you got rewarded so quickly, they are one of the best nectar sources for so many insects as you have seen. I couldn't agree more of course - it's so good to read comments like yours :) Best wishes to you and yours - Joel

[@angelkotilainen]

Ooh that's interesting, white and purple on the same bush? I have been collecting Buddleas for a few years and I don't have one that's multi coloured :)

[@frankedgar6694]

I’ve planted these plants for the first time this summer. It’s mid August in Dallas County, Texas and we’re starting to see butterflies in higher numbers for the first since early summer. I’m loving how low maintenance these plants are.

[@jonathanmoore8886]

Denton County here. Will definitely be putting these in our yard.

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi Jonathan - I am so glad that this video and of course Frank's comment has encouraged you to do this - you will be suitably rewarded, I promise :) Best wishes - Joel

[@waygoblue4729]

Thank you for this - years ago, I was at my granny's (in Alabama), and she had this bush in bloom, and said, "That kind of bush attracts butterflies." I never knew it was called, "Buddleia"! Thank you, Mr. Ashton; I'll have to get one in her memory.

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

What a lovely comment to receive :) I'm so glad the video was helpful and that you now know which one, and it's a wonderful thing to plant, not only in her memory but you will be helping lots of butterflies and other insects too - you can see a few in this video of the garden I have now, there's a pretty ancient one: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fYi0pIKlmrV3Zpo Best wishes to you and yours in Alabama :) Stay safe - Joel

[@SuperTdarling]

I live in Ontario Canada and have 7 of these beauties. I always trim away the spent flowers and they continue right into the first frost in late fall. So many butterflies visit and at night, moths as well as the hummingbird moths in the daytime as well as actual hummingbirds. They're utterly delightful to have. Thank you for this great video.

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Thank you, I really appreciate this - one of the first videos I ever recorded and I remember how nervous I was! But I'm really glad to hear you enjoyed it and that you have a grand total of 7 of them, they're so good for butterflies and many other insects. Very best wishes, and thanks again - Joel

[@ThePegasus101]

i have a lovely dark purple buddleah growing in my garden..its just started to flower,,also bought a white flowering one...

[@Jem544]

Also, nectar is just one piece of the puzzle. Host plants are just as important as nectar plants in the life cycle of butterflies and moths. Plant native nectar plants and host plants and you'll attract even more to your garden 🏡

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Absolutely - I've been making wildlife gardens for over 16 years now and host plants are, as you say, just as important and vital for a lot of species - the Tansy Beetle in the UK is just one example, their only host plant being Tansy... best wishes, Joel

[@453421abcdefg12345]

Hello Joel, we have been without computer connection some some time, so it was a real treat to find you have posted some new videos! The Buddleias are, as you say, an essential nectar plant for any gardener that likes to see butterflies flying in the most unlikely places, they soon find a rich source of nectar like this, and the good thing with Buddleias is that they are so easy to multiply by taking cuttings, I think those with a small garden can be put off growing them as they can grow so big, but cutting back each year keeps the plant both under control, and makes for more blooms lower down so butterflies can be seen more easily. Stay safe ! Chris B.

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Englishman French great to hear from you! It was only last week I was wondering where you’d got to! 😂 So pleased you share the same enthusiasm for Buddleia. I’ll come to you for a reference for them! 😂 Thanks Chris, speak soon 👍

[@simonleaf2765]

I just got myself a Buddleia Gold. It has variegated leaves with pale purple flowers. I can't wait to see it well established so I can see more butterflies. Really enjoyed your video.

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi Simon - that's great to hear, thanks so much. Great choice too, let me know when you are rewarded for planting this :) Best wishes to you and yours, Joel

[@SereneSoakingSounds]

I'm not joking I was telling my neighbor to get a butterfly bush and then youtube recommended your video from six months ago 😊 I'm telling you I don't know how I missed this one 💕🌿🕊️🌸✝️God bless you all and thank you again for such great content!

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hello! Sorry I'm late with the reply, so many notifications lately and I'm just catching up - so glad you got to see the video :) Keep spreading the word! I do hope you are well and happy - best wishes, Joel

[@SereneSoakingSounds]

@@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton not a worry Joel you don't have to reply to all my comments 🌿 juts want to show my support I know how youtube Comments can get out of hand 😊 All is well over on this end 💖 God bless you all

[@DerekDogsforSentience]

They can grow, get big and get out of control. I’ve dwarfed mine by using large containers. They are fantastic structural plant if controlled. Make sure you water ever day in peak summer heat and at least twice a week from late may-September. Soak well! Had mine like this for 20 years now. I re-pot (fresh soil, same pot) every two - three years. It lets me know if it’s unhappy believe me 😂

[@nelcicomin2204]

E um presente ver essa flor abuleia 👏👏👏🙏🙏 eu amo essa flor

[@yvonneparkin1618]

My just appeared it’s beautiful it’s like a tree now love it so much and my grandchildren 🦋🦋🦋

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

So good to hear. Thank You for doing your bit for wildlife 😊👍

[@lindaedwards2342]

I've always loved these. I currently have a second story tree that produces three foot blooms

[@tennesseenana4838]

This spring I started planting a pollinator garden with a variety of plants. Since I have poor draining hard clay soil here (zone 6b/7a) I have all of them in containers in an area in front of the house. The butterfly bush is on my list to get tomorrow. I've also learned the importance of having a butterfly puddle and will add that this week.

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

I have a lot of containers on mine too "Nana" - you can see my garden in this video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fYi0pIKlmrV3Zpo Hope you are enjoying the channel - best wishes to you, and thank you for gardening with nature in mind - the rewards are endless! Joel

[@christianadams9114]

There is a native plant which requires damp meadows through to water edges. Hemp Agrimony, which is just as attractive to Butterflies. It has lovely pale froffy pink flowers.

[@stevenvitali7404]

Great video, thanks , my garden is mostly buddleia buzz and salvia's, also the dwarf verbena bonairiensis is an amazing plant for pollenaters

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Couldn't agree more! Thanks for sharing this Steven, your garden sounds like the perfect haven, and what fantastic rewards these plants bring in the form of butterflies and pollinators - great stuff, best wishes and thanks for your support - Joel

[@antcowan]

There's a piece of waste ground near me me with a huge amount of these growing. A fantastic sea of purple 💜

[@francoisventer7454]

Beautiful and Graceful South Africa

[@leebay6093]

I’m in Tasmania Australia and have this Bush in my garden, great to gain knowledge concerning this Bush. Mine is same as your and I’m amazed how much the flowers smell of Honey - can’t wait to see butterfly’s 👌

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Wow! Hi there! utmost apologies for the delay in responding, I don't seem to be getting all the notifications re comments and am having to trawl the videos to ensure I'm acknowledging everyone. It's so good to hear from you and to know you have them there too - the butterflies and many other insects will appreciate it - let me know who visits! Best wishes, Joel

[@leebay6093]

@@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton I notice the Bumble Bees visiting and native bees, funny, have not seen many or actually any butterflies here, I’m in a world heritage area of Tasmania and it can get cold here, I wonder if this keeps Butterflies away 🤔

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

@@leebay6093 It could be... but they should be hibernating at that point or over-wintering as larvae... you could try these plants to attract more: clover, dill, fennel, milkweed, parsley, and sunflower - it might be good to research more about the butterflies endemic to Tasmania and the plants they prefer - hope these help :) Best wishes, Joel

[@Lisas_Chatroom]

Thank you. It's so great that there are many butterflies on the plant as you're talking! I just bought the very same one... . I live in the U.S. so I wish you would have talked about how to tend in the fall and winter..

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi Lisa - I do have a video lined up on how to prune these, it's just finding the time at the moment as I'm very busy with work - however, in the meantime do dead-head them after they have flowered and then cut back to around 30cm above ground level in late winter/early Spring. Hope that helps and that you're enjoying the channel - best wishes, Joel

[@gardeninside1367]

New great video 😍😍😍🥰

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Mr. Santosh thank you 😊🙏

[@user-vx2qw2vx2o]

Hi edagdwg love the butterfly bush plant enjoy it a forever loving fan Linda j.peace

[@roxammon5858]

I had a Silver-washed fritillary on my buddleia a few days ago. Valezina female. I find that verbena is equally as good. it can be a bit 'leggy', so i prune it early on which encourages more shooting branches.

[@Annakist76]

I'll second that! I have about 6 in my garden and 2 on my balcony and they are teeming with butterflies, bees and hoverflies in the day and moths at night ❤ 🧡 💛 💚 💙 💜

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Thank you :) This is great to know - I am so sorry for the delay in responding to you but I have been working away and many late evenings and weekends, so I am just catching up with everyone - but it was good to read your comment, best wishes - Joel

[@Annakist76]

@@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton No need to apologise :) I'm loving your channel- wilding my garden (and balcony) is my great passion 🦋🌼

[@Flower_hoarder]

🌱🌿🦋ENJOYED 🦋🌿🌱

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Thank you Marlise, I really appreciate your support :) Best wishes, Joel

[@ThePegasus101]

thats true along halifax uk railway station theyre eeverywhere

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

They're a lover of railway sidings and chimneys, that's for sure 🤣but at least butterflies and other insects can rely on them.

[@theworthysoul]

Really recommend ‘Lo and Behold’ buddlejas like ‘Blue Chip’ that don’t require deadheading to stop them being invasive as they don’t produce viable seed. They also flower constantly and stay quite compact.

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Brilliant - thanks so much for these recommendations and being part of the wonderful community here, I really appreciate it :) Best wishes - Joel

[@theworthysoul]

@@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshtonno problem! Admittedly I don’t have such buddlejas as of now and am bouncing recommendations from elsewhere, since I already have too many regular buddlejas in the garden haha. An honour being part of this community :) I’m constantly flicking back through your book too for plant recommendations But next house I’ll probably go for a non-invasive variety, or maybe black knight as it is a stunner (provided I have time to dead head it diligently).

[@nelcicomin2204]

Lindíssima essa flor 👏👏👏

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Realmente é, e tão bom para a vida selvagem - obrigado, espero que gostem do canal e que seja útil. Muitas felicidades, Joel

[@nunoviccente81]

Hi Joel, I just saw your video and I end up buying one of your books... It should arrive soon! Conrgatulations for what you do, it is very nice to have people like you, and your brother, being inspiring other people and this way helping a bit to revert what is happening... So, I am interested with planting some of theses trees. I already got some, but I live in a place that is pretty dry (Alicante, in Spain) and I don't know if I am going to have problems since I don't have a lot of water where I am going to plant them. It is facing east and I have one tree that gives shade. I don't know if putting them half shadow or let them facing directly the sun. Do you have any additional information you could share, and do you know about the amount of water these needs in this kind of places? Thanks a lot for you comment and for the nice life direction you seem to be having!

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi there Nuno - what a wonderful message to receive, I'm so glad you have been inspired. So that I can answer in more detail would you please be able to send me an email to [e-mail] and if possible a few photos of the area and I will do my utmost to help you, I am on site right now but will be able to help over the weekend :) Many thanks again for your kinds words - they make all the difference - best wishes to you, Joel

[@sonjalingchungtsang1097]

Hello Joel, I came across a lot of negative information about the butterfly bush (buddleja davidii) recently. In our city it's on a list of plants which highly suggests one should get rid of incase cultivating it in ones garden. Apparently, it's an invasive neophyte from Far East China and got out of control all over Europe and America. Ecologists deemed the shrub a threat to native ecosystems, as butterfly bush seeds escaped backyard gardens and invaded forests and meadows. It spreads quickly over larger distances with its many, light and small seeds. It overgrows open areas along streams, on gravel bars, or in woodlands. It prevents the emergence of native herbs, shrubs and trees.

[@Brockthedog315]

Get varieties that are not invasive. Won’t spread by seed. Miss Molly, miss violet, etc. they are gorgeous and fragrant.

[@jameswilmot4537]

I have a White Buddleia in my garden which was a cutting. It first appeared in my June/July 2018 videos on my channel. This plant has grown and finally settled into it's permanent place in the garden for my February 2021 update. It should flower nicely this year as the parent plant did in 2018. Happy Growing :)

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Looks great James - you certainly have some fantastic peppers in that greenhouse too :) Keep up the good work, you must find it very therapeutic - best wishes, Joel

[@jameswilmot4537]

@@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton Hi, yes I have got into Peppers since 2019, a real escape and I'm starting new pepper seeds for this year. I don't think February 2021 was a good time in the greenhouse as I realised I'd lost them from 2020 due to winter. Things got better by Summer '21 and I've overwintered my peppers this time :)

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

@@jameswilmot4537 We live and learn :) Great that you have managed to recover losses - keep going :) Best wishes, Joel

[@jameswilmot4537]

@@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton I made a video just before I lost this plant on taking cuttings from it and how I kept this plant alive at least through propagation :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/rHe5m62dlrp7j8U

[@navajo6931]

Beautiful I want this plant

[@brownro214]

Just recently watched another video discussing the butterfly bush being banned in several western US states as a non-native invasive species. Apparently the climate in that area is conducive to propagation by seed and the plant spreads quickly.

[@Pierceb2]

There are now many sterile varieties now that don’t self seed you can now buy in those areas,

[@jrperes2021]

Nice video! Great name!

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Haha - thank you Joel :) Glad you enjoyed this, best wishes..... Joel :)

[@vinner_aadi4298]

Nice.

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Thanks!

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Thank you 😊

[@nancynesytofreske]

here in the US these butterfly bush are invasive and they aren't the best for pollinators. It's so much better to plant natives which will provide the nectar and pollen that will be the best for pollinators. Our native pollinators have evolved with our native plants not imported plants. So important for everyone to understand this.

[@sassy3923]

Most of the buddleias in the garden centers here on Long Island, New York, will flower profusely without a buttefly in sight - except for cabbage moths. But I have had good luck with buddleia "Lochinch".

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi Sassy - that's good to hear. Our white species of butterflies are collectively known as "Cabbage Whites" and have been rather frowned upon by gardeners in the past, due to their love of brassicas, but they are just as important and beautiful :) That variant of buddleja sounds great, I'll certainly look that one up! Best wishes to you and yours - Joel

[@susanclements9168]

I'm uk. I've had planted a tri colour one plus black knight one doing well in flower already.

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi Susan :) They certainly are one of the best shrubs to attract pollinators, and it won't be long before you are rewarded as so many butterflies and insects enjoy these - best wishes - Joel

[@rhondabaroli2683]

Because they are jus plain beautiful 💜🦋💐🧏

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Exactly this :) Thank you Rhonda - best wishes, Joel

[@roxammon5858]

it is important to dead head them regularly. They need constant watering if they are placed in a pot though. Mine have been wilting in pots in this heat.

[@overchenko_alina]

Гарний сад і ведучий каналу ❤️🇺🇦

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Дуже дякую за теплі слова! Я дуже вдячний, я сподіваюся, що ви та ваша родина залишитесь у безпеці :)

[@slr4172]

Thank you for introducing this gem. Would these make a good hedge row or is it not compact enough?

[@melissamybubbles6139]

It would depend on the variety you get and how much room you have.

[@meriannebratu2921]

I have one in my garden but the funny thing is … It grew all by itself without us knowing and we didn’t plant it 😂😂 I’m turning it into a tree now so we can save a lot of space before it turns into a bush

[@lisas5913]

The leaves are delicate and can't take heavy winds

[@GeorgeCoggins]

i know of a ton growing on a hill behind a local walmart

[@normancoutts]

Time to get one for the allotment I think.

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Excellent to hear Norman - you will be rewarded in no time :) Best wishes, Joel

[@gardeninside1367]

Please make a video on wildlife pond😊😊😊😊✌️✌️

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Mr. Santosh I am working on a full “How to make a wildlife pond” video at the moment 😊👍

[@bardo677]

I've got three at the moment 😌

[@bardo677]

I had a hummingbird moth on mine the other year

[@CatchMOFish]

They’re invasive. Plant milkweed 🤙🏻

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

If you're in the US this is a great recommendation - the Monarchs are in desperate need of this. Thank you - best wishes, Joel

[@ElliotPorter65]

Are there any native alternatives to the butterfly bush (that is a host plant and also provides plenty of nectar in the summer for butterflies and other pollinators)?

[@cindibarber3354]

Hello, what is the name of this particular butterfly bush. Where can I order it from in USA? Beautiful blooms!!!

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi Cindi :) Sorry for the delay - this one is just a simple Buddleja Davidii, or "summer lilac" - it's probably the most common one in the UK, ie seen in abundance in either wild areas or clinging on to old buildings! It does best in well drained soil and full sun - I hope that's helpful and that you find a specimen (or two!) - best wishes, Joel

[@bobmarley6161]

Hello hope your well I need to get this to also spread on a verge near me I have managed to get lots of red valerian and red campion and oxeye daisy's to spread... I've seen a bush nest me with still brown cones... Do you think it'll still have seed... If not can I get a cutting... Thanks for your help....

[@diydiva3190]

I bought one off the sale rack that looks a bit stressed. Should I do anything special to help it along?

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi DIY Diva :) Buddleia grow in the most barren and difficult places, they're pretty determined and you will be rewarded by this plant for "saving" it, I promise - do ensure it's watered well when you plant it - let me know how you get it on, they are not averse to a hard cutting back, but it will improve I am sure - best wishes, Joel

[@susanjohn6506]

Hi Joel, are the mini buddlejas just as good for the butterfly’s ? Not heard of host plants, what other host plants are there?

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi Susan, they are good for nectar source absolutely, if you have space then a couple of different dwarf varieties will ensure grateful visitors :) Host plants means those plants that are used by the butterflies to lay eggs on as their caterpillars require these host plants to feed. I am not sure where you are based but if you let me know then I can give a few pointers to which host plants encourage which species of butterfly - hope this helps, best wishes - Joel

[@susanjohn6506]

@@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton thank you Joel, I am in North Herts, south of Cambridge.

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

@@susanjohn6506 Ah, excellent - then I'd recommend Cuckoo Flower and Garlic Mustard for the Orange Tip butterflies, Holly and Ivy for the Holly Blue and Buckthorn and Alder Buckthorn for the Brimstone - there's 3 to start ;) If you search the channel there is a video on Cuckoo Flower - Best wishes - Joel

[@susanjohn6506]

Thank you so much Joel, so helpful.

[@0xb1_]

I see these everywhere in the UK!

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi Suhaib - yes, they are good at growing in places that most plants would struggle in, I've even seen them growing at the side of chimneys! :) Best wishes - Joel

[@0xb1_]

@@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton Thanks joel!

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

@@0xb1_ My pleasure Suhaib, I hope the channel is useful to you :)

[@0xb1_]

@@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton It definitely is :)

[@skylarius3757]

The previous video I watched said that Buddlia is an invasive plant that has a woody root structure which can cause damage to bricks.

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi. It can be somewhat invasive in the right situation. Without any management and can indeed grow in bricks, but if managed and planted in the right place, can be a great benefit to wildlife. I hope this helps 😊👍

[@alfiedog2942]

How close to a house would you plant a young plant ? Are they as bad as some bamboo plants in this respect? Thanks

[@grantmail4112]

Is it possible to buy them fully grown as we are looking for something to fill a gap with instant coverage? My Mum has about 6 in her front and back garden and the amount of butterflies is incredible. I was just seeing if they can be purchased about 7ft pre-grown.

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi Grant - you can probably buy them at this height, but they would be expensive. To reassure you, planting a 3-4ft buddleja this year will mean it will grow to the height you now want by next year, without much care and you will have very grateful visitors. One of mine is around 17 years old now and I rarely prune it - you can see it here about 8 mins into the video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fYi0pIKlmrV3Zpo I hope this is helpful to you Grant - best wishes, Joel

[@grantmail4112]

@@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton Thanks Joel, that's really helpful... I will start my search to buy a couple.. thanks : )

[@NecroMorrius]

My buddleia is about 20 foot tall now lol. Bought the house a year ago and no idea what to do with it

[@sapofish]

My buddleia has curling leaves. I think it might be infested with some kind of pest, but couldn't find out much. What I did find didn't offer much hope.

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi there - so sorry for the delay, have been away in Scotland looking at client jobs and just trying to catch up - it might be larvae of butterflies or moths, but if you wanted to send a few close-up pictures to me I'll happily take a look, try me at [e-mail] - best wishes, Joel

[@spicyritas4795]

Two years later but they do sell sterile butterfly bush which butterflies enjoy.

[@MrLJGrillo]

Hi, I live in Orlando Florida, will they grow as nice in a bed flower planter?

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hello there - so sorry for the delay - they will indeed grow in a flower planter, over here in the UK they find anywhere they can to grow, I've seen them growing out of the cracks in chimneys before, carparks etc - they will appreciate being "loved" :) Hope that helps - best wishes, Joel

[@MrLJGrillo]

@@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton Thank you, it was very helpful.. Blessings to you!

[@miq83333]

Is it like vitex agnus tree like very high temprature 45 or not

[@martine4590]

Some species are invasive and even forbidden in certain areas I believe

[@London263]

You're right

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi Martine, they can be invasive, you're right - but they're not banned in the UK, they're not native but have been here for over a hundred years now and really do help pollinators to survive - they can easily be pulled up when young :) Best wishes, Joel

[@darrenmackenzie1892]

Are they from the weed family and are they not goid for buildings like japense weedknot plant. Im i wrong about this?? Can you hafe this in plant pot??

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi Darren, they will grow in pots, and you're right that they will grow in chimneys and waste-land. They're not native to the UK but have been here since late 1800s, they're named after the Reverend Buddle who brought these back. They're a vital nectar source for many insects and butterflies who rely on this due to us ripping out so much of their habitat and nectar sources previously. They're considered invasive in the US for sure though. Hope this helps, best wishes - Joel

[@williammallender8391]

Is there a variety of Buddleia that will do well in a large pot?

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi William, as long as they're kept watered of course, most buddleja will do very well - I've seen them growing out of the side of chimneys in London ;) There are several "dwarf" varieties too - best wishes, Joel

[@williammallender8391]

@@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton Thanks Joel, I'll see what I can find

[@damonk3674]

I've just got a bush for our beautiful daughter who passed away in January. It has come today and in the box can you tell me please do I plant right into the garden or start with it in a plant pot???? I don't want it to die as it's for our beautiful daughter THANKS DAMON

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi Damon - firstly, so sorry to hear about your daughter, but what a wonderful way to acknowledge her. You can plant it directly into the soil and now is the best time really as it will be "dormant", but be bedded in nicely for when the blooms appear. I don't know what species you have bought but the same will apply for all - they grow in very random places, I've seen them growing out of chimneys on houses for example, but if you want to ensure it flowers to the fullest, then do ensure it is in sun. They prefer well drained soil, so anywhere that isn't "boggy". You can prune it each year or, depending on the space you have, just let it do what it would do in nature if left to it's own devices. Cutting the spent flowers when they are finished will also encourage it to bloom for longer. I do hope this is helpful to you - am here if you need any other help - best wishes to you, Joel

[@damonk3674]

@@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton we have a south facing garden so at present with the cold weather. We're we have the flower bed there is no shelter from the elements will that be ok for the plant??? Regards Damon

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

@@damonk3674 Hi Damon, this will be absolutely fine - buddleia can survive in temperatures below -10c so no need to worry about the cold, and south-facing is perfect as it will have a lot of sun. They're pretty tough plants and you may well find new ones growing in random places in a year or two, all from this original plant :) Hope this is helpful, best wishes - Joel

[@loriboyd4411]

We live in zone five and our butterfly bushes are developing yellow leaves down low on the plants. We water one time a week and the bushes are two years old they are planted in black dirt and not clay. We don’t fertilize them either. We are not sure if we are under watering them or overwatering them? Can anyone help us or have any suggestions?? Thank you! Also, is it normal for the new blooms, not yet opened to curl in the heat?

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi Lori - sorry for the late reply, just trying to catch up with everyone now it's the weekend. But foliage can turn yellow naturally, also due to overwatering, nutrient deficiency and insect attack so it's difficult to tell without seeing the plant I'm afraid, I hope that this helps in some further research based on these factors. Best wishes, and I hope you're having a good weekend - Joel

[@loriboyd4411]

@@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton Thank you for your reply Joel, and yes it was helpful, thank you for taking time out to answer me. ☺️

[@cleehey3665]

Will they grow in the shade?

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi there - they will grow in shaded areas but tend not to flower as prolifically, semi-shade should be ok as at least you will get more flowers/nectar than in full shade. I hope this is helpful, best wishes - Joel

[@stacy18]

I find they attract alot of bees aswel which we need to help.

[@juniperartsmen8669]

I don’t know how to prune mine. They say “Above the bud.” But there’s NOTHING above the bud because the bud is the tip? Do I cut AIR? What???? I need help…

[@themichaelmadl]

Is this a highly invasive species as far as seeds spraying all over the place? If not what is the exact type/species.??

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi Michael, in the UK it's pretty common - you'll see it growing at the side of railway tracks and I've even seen it growing out of the side of chimneys. In a garden setting it will reproduce but the new saplings are easy to pull out and control but these are such an important source of nectar for many insects and they're known as "the Butterfly Bush" for good reason - this particular one is the Davidii but there are many species available, even dwarf - but the larger varieties can be cut back quite hard. I hope this helps, if not then do let me know and I'm happy to answer questions - best wishes, Joel

[@melissamybubbles6139]

It depends on whether you buy a variety without viable seeds.

[@alyaandar5843]

Sorry I come to late

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

No problem. They are great for butterflies 😊👍

[@Adam2050]

Why are they listed as a problem? I've now planted three.

[@MissPurbeck]

The presentation is in England, the gardener is in England. The garden is in England, and you will find if you look further that every garden he mentions/shows HAS native species. Buddleia provides an extra not an alternative.

[@elizabethvargas5658]

Is lemon verbena and butterfly bush the same plant?

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi Elizabeth - I don't think so, although one thing I have learned is that insects/butterflies do tend to like the smaller tiny flowers that, collectively, give the appearance of one bigger flower - the flowers on buddleja and verbena species are very similar - both great for attracting insects though :) Hope that helps - best wishes, Joel

[@theinvincible7511]

Does it highly scented or just light fragrance. . ?

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

It is scented, some more than others I think, but there is definitely a light fragrance :) Hope that helps - best wishes, Joel

[@theinvincible7511]

@@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton thanks for the info.🌱👍

[@raghurokda1260]

🥀🥀😀😍👍

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Thank you :) Best wishes, Joel

[@15heartz]

Safe to eat or not?

[@sandramcnally4474]

I got 3 or 4 butterfly bush now gone dry because got chip bark think have water them look like plant die what do with plant

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi Sandra - sorry for the delay, have been away in Scotland. Buddleia will usually grow in all kinds of conditions and survive even in brick walls and on the top of chimneys here in the UK, but it may be that they have been exposed to a lot of wind which has dried them out, my own here do require extra watering on occasion when the leaves start to wilt but it's not often. I hope that helps - best wishes - Joel

[@sandramcnally4474]

just my just uncle told me put bark chip down so being water plant ifdont water them they go sleeps is that true@@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton

[@melissalittle7906]

I bought a butterfly plant last summer I planted and still to this day no flowers

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi Melissa - sorry for the delay in acknowledging your comment, it's the busiest time of the year at the moment. I have two "white" species buddleja that I planted two years ago and am yet to see flowers, despite others of similar size being planted at the same time that were in flower the following season. Am not too sure why, I know that the "white" ones are more in a shady area and this may have something to do with it, but the usual buddleja have no problem growing in all kinds of situations. I'll keep my fingers crossed for you! Best wishes, Joel

[@Tonic_Taz]

think one popped up in my front yard. i thought it was a lilac.

[@user-cl5fn2zw5x]

But i read that these bushes attract too many pollinators and have distracted pollinators from other native plants...

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

They can attract all manner of insects and are a good all round pollinator plant

[@sedoniadragotta8323]

Got mine bare root from pound land cost 2 pounds.

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Brilliant - I hope you are rewarded with lots of hungry pollinators :) Best wishes, Joel

[@OneKLPh1L]

But I got aphids on mine ?

[@zakmian7123]

How do l deadhead them?

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi Zak. You can deadhead by cutting back the flowers after they've finished flowering to the nearest leaf. I will be doing a full video on this in due course. Thanks for commenting. I hope this helps and apologies for the delay.

[@Austrian_blood]

Sun? Or partial Sun?

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi there, buddleia do better in full sun but they'll certainly grow in semi-shade and in all kinds of conditions :) Hope this helps, best wishes - Joel

[@mrgerrytube]

If not controlled, a buddleia will undermine your walls, brickwork, etc and cause havoc.

[@philliporion9806]

Buddleia is not native and classed as invasive (in the uk) with so much going on around the world 're rewilding would it be better to encourage people to plant native trees and plants.

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Phillip Orion I agree with planting native trees just as much, but I’m just highlighting the importance that these shrubs have in providing a vital nectar source for late summer insects

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

There are other videos on my channel, but here’s one on the importance of Hawthorn for insects and birds alike kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5vcfYWanruEh6s

[@philliporion9806]

@@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton I hear you, but as I said it's not native and as such do we really know the true cost (There will be one) anything that evolved to live in this country will have something it feeds on threw out the year, should are role not be to find these and encourage them.

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Phillip Orion I understand your point, but the same could be said about Sycamore, Horse Chestnut and many more trees which have now become accepted within the UK. Likewise with many of the plants sold in garden centres. Apart from railway lines and abandoned waste ground, I’m yet to discover buddleia becoming a problem species in gardens where they can be easily maintained

[@trevorw7901]

@@philliporion9806 ​ @Wild Your Garden with Joel Ashton The advice from DEFRA is to deadhead the buddleia to prevent self-seeding. Buddleia is certainly not in the top ten of most invasive plants. I'm not sure where you would draw the line as native plants are usually defined as such by having been here before the Romans arrived.Invasive animal species are much more of a problem. Certainly if we excluded all non-native plants the landscape of Britain would be much less diverse and Ireland even more so.

[@mariachavez4718]

They are Eatable and Medicinal they are used in China for this purpose

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Hi Maria, thank you - I did not know that :) Best wishes, Joel

[@galations22o]

NEVER would I plant this nonnative bush in my yard!!! Never ever!!!

[@sonjalingchungtsang1097]

THANK YOU! It's actually a quite problematic plant.

[@fuxan]

Shame...this is a non-native invasive plant in the US...it is from southeast Asia...asking YT to NOT recommend your channel and not get interaction

[@WildYourGardenWithJoelAshton]

Thanks Brian - just so you know, I wasn't responsible for it's introduction to the US or indeed the UK over 130 years ago. But here's hoping South Carolina follow Oregon's stance and other states put a ban on it too :) Best wishes, Joel

[@melissamybubbles6139]

Whether butterfly bush is invasive in the US depends on the area and variety. Introduced is not the same as invasive.