Plant of the Month – October
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Woolly Butterfly Bush
Buddleja marrubiifolia
Woolly Butterfly Bush offers double interest in your yard: curious ball-shaped orange flower clusters most of the year that attract butterflies, and striking, silver-green woolly foliage.
- Plant Form: Semi-evergreen shrub
- Water Use: Low
- Mature Size: 5 ft. tall & wide
- Exposure: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Bloom Time: Year-round; Heaviest in Spring & Summer (May – Oct)
- Native to: SW Texas to New Mexico
- Hardiness: Cold hardy to 10°F
Woolly Butterfly Bush may look odd enough to have some wondering if it had been designed by Dr. Seuss, but its velvety, silver-green foliage is prized by gardeners everywhere. Flowers are ½-inch, ball-shaped clusters of tiny red-orange flowers that attract butterflies and other pollinators. The marble-sized flowers may appear year-round, but are heaviest in spring and summer. Its densely woolly leaves set off the eye-catching flowers, and contrast well with any deep green plants paired with it. The only care it needs may be a light pruning in winter or early spring to maintain shape and promote blooming. Tolerates heat and drought, but over-watering may cause root rot. Unamended soil and good drainage are essential. Makes an excellent accent plant, and a great addition to butterfly gardens.
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