Is Butterfly bush hardy?

Hardy down to -20 °C (USDA zone 6, RHS H6). In the colder parts of the country (Carinthia, Salzburg, Tyrol) it may not survive winter without protection.

How far from the house should Butterfly bush be planted?

Plant it at least 3 m from buildings. Keep it at least 2.5 m from paving.

When does Butterfly bush flower?

Flowering: June–September, white, red, pink, purple, blue.

How much water does Butterfly bush need?

Water need: low. Drought tolerance: high.

How much does Butterfly bush cost?

It sells for roughly €8.40 to €130 in local shops, depending on size.

Butterfly bush

Buddleja davidii

Butterfly bush (Buddleja davidii) is a shrub. Hardy down to -20 °C. Drought tolerance: high. Sold in local shops from about €8.40.

Illustration of Butterfly bush — An illustration of the typical shape of the mature plant, not a photo.

What it's good for, and what it isn't

Its fragrant summer flowers attract butterflies and work well at the back of a sunny border. Give it freely draining soil, prune in spring, and remove faded flower heads to reduce seed production. Prefer a verified low-seeding selection over the freely seeding species.

Watch out for

It escapes cultivation in parts of Central Europe and can displace native vegetation, particularly on gravelly riverbanks and disturbed ground; it is officially listed as invasive in Switzerland. Seedlings established in masonry cracks can cause structural damage through root growth. Cold winters may kill the top growth, while persistently wet, poorly drained soil can cause root rot. Spider mites may become troublesome during hot, dry weather. Published mature spread estimates differ substantially, so allow generous space.

Considered invasive in a neighbouring country

It isn't listed here, but don't plant it near natural habitats, woodland or water, and don't leave the clippings outside the garden.

Key facts

Light: Full sun, Part shade
Water need: Low
Care: Medium
Size after 10 years: 3 m × 3 m
Hardiness: down to -20 °C
Foliage: Deciduous
Flowering: J F M A M J J A S O N D June–September, white, red, pink, purple, blue

Group	Shrub
Light	Full sun, Part shade
Size after 10 years	3 m × 3 m
Ultimate size	2.5–4 m × 2–3 m
Hardiness	down to -20 °C (USDA 6, RHS H6)
Soil	Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Calcareous, Acidic
Foliage	Deciduous
Flowering	June–September, white, red, pink, purple, blue
Water need	Low
Drought tolerance	High
Maintenance	Medium
Root aggressiveness	Medium
Suckering	yes
Spreading	High
Distance from buildings	at least 3 m
Distance from paving	at least 2.5 m
Litter	not typical
Planting distance	250 cm
For dogs	no data
For cats	no data
For children	Mildly toxic (uncertain)
Typical price	from about €8.40

Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor.

Sizes and prices available

The same plant is sold as a small pot and as a specimen several metres tall, and the price follows. Prices are rounded and for guidance only.

Size	Typical price
17 cm	approx. €28
30-40 cm	approx. €12
40-60 cm	approx. €41
45 cm	approx. €17
50-60 cm	approx. €13
60-80 cm	approx. €33
80-100 cm	approx. €42
size not stated	approx. €8.60 – €130

Frequently asked questions

Data updated: October 13, 2026 · How our data is made

Appears in these lists

Drought-tolerant plants Drought-tolerant shrubs Shrubs for pollinators Plants for a Mediterranean garden Flowering shrubs Fragrant plants Fragrant shrubs