Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis)

Plant Size: 1 Gallon

Plant Name: Buttonbush – Cephalanthus occidentalis              

Type: Shrub

Growth Characteristics  Buttonbush is usually a small shrub up to 5-8 feet tall and 3-6 feet wide. In June to September small, fragrant, white, tubular flowers occur in round clusters that have protruding styles, giving them a pincushion-like effect. The fruits are reddish-brown, showy, and persist into winter. Flowering is poor in the shade or in dry soils. It is multi-stemmed with a rounded to irregular crown and needs little pruning. Has a medium growth rate.

Hardiness: Climate zones 5-9

Light Requirements: Full and partial sun; is tolerant of heat.

Water Needs:  Prefers wet areas along streams, lakes and often in standing water up to 3 feet.

Soil Preference: Buttonbush needs consistently moist to wet, rich soils; tolerates compacted soils.

DISEASE, PEST and Deer RESISTANCE

It is moderately resistant to browsing by deer.

SITE CONSIDERATIONS

This shrub can be used for erosion control on wet sites. Use it in a rain or water garden, naturalized areas and around a pond or along streams and boggy areas with poor drainage.

Value to Wildlife and Insects

Buttonbush has exceptional wildlife benefits, attracting many types of pollinators, waterfowl, birds, and mammals.