Buddleja (Buddleia) davidii Harlequin (Butterfly Bush)

A vigorous deciduous shrub, the Buddleja davidii `Harlequin` (Buddleia/Butterfly Bush) is a unique addition to any garden. Its attractive variegated foliage, with lance-shaped grey-green leaves and white margins, adds interest even when not in bloom. But when summer and autumn arrive, large heads of fragrant flowers in a stunning purple color make this shrub a magnet for butterflies.

• Height:Flowering to 3m
• Spread:Easily maintained to 2m
• Foliage Colour:Lance shaped grey green with white margins
• Flower Colour:Purple (a selection from Royal Red)
• Soil Type:Well drained, sandy, loam, chalk, clay
• Position:Full Sun – Partial Shade
• Hardiness:Hardy H6 (-15)
• Type:Deciduous Shrub

Reaching a height of up to 3m and easily maintained to 2m spread, this hardy shrub thrives in well-drained, sandy, loam, chalk, or clay soil. It can be planted in full sun or partial shade, making it a versatile choice for any garden. Supplied in either a 9cm pot or 2 Litre pot, you can select your preferred size when ordering.

When it comes to growing advice, Buddleja can sometimes suffer from a few problems, but these are easily remedied, mostly by pruning. However, it’s important to prune at the right time to avoid any issues. Pruning too hard, too early (usually in late autumn or winter) can lead to new shoots growing through the winter months, only to be easily frosted when the frosts arrive in late winter. To avoid this, it’s recommended to prune established plants by a third in October/November to loosely shape the shrub, and then prune down quite hard in late March/April. This will not affect flowering and can even improve it, prolonging the flowers later into the season.

Another potential issue with Buddleja is eelworm, which can cause yellow or brown blotches on the leaves or deformed shoots with blackened buds and twisted or deformed leaves. The best way to treat this is by cutting out affected branches or shoots and discarding them away from the garden. Over time, this will help treat the problem.

But don’t let these potential issues deter you from adding a Buddleja to your garden. This genus offers a wide variety of species and varieties, with different flower types, colors, and sizes. They are not just large plants, and their flowers are a favorite among butterflies and other beneficial insects. So, sit back and relax in your garden and enjoy your Buddleja plant.