Buddleja (Buddleia) x weyeriana Sungold – AGM

An unusual variety with yellow flowers, the Buddleja (Buddleia) x weyeriana Sungold is a standout in any garden. This hybrid was bred in Dorset during the First World War and is a selection from the Buddleja bred by Major William van de Weyer of Smedmore House. It is a cross between Buddleja davidii Magnifica and Buddleja globosa, resulting in a unique and eye-catching plant.

There are three notable varieties ofBuddleja x weyeriana, each with its own distinct features.Buddleja x Sungoldhas a strong yellow colour with orange centers and pale yellow buds, making it the most popular variety.Buddleja x Moonlighthas pale cream flowers with a yellow center and blueish buds, while Buddleja x Golden Glowcombines features from both Sungold and Moonlight with its golden flowers and blueish buds. All three varieties are worthy of a place in any garden.

• Height:Flowering to 4m (easily kept to 2m)
• Spread:Easily maintained to 2m
• Foliage Colour:Rounded grey green
• Flower Colour:Golden yellow round clustersloaded with small flowers
• Soil Type:Well drained, sandy, loam, chalk, clay
• Position:Full Sun – Partial Shade
• Hardiness:Hardy H6 (-15)
• Type:Deciduous Shrub

A proven garden plant, Buddleja x weyeriana Sungold is also very attractive to insects and butterflies. It has been awarded the AGM (Award of Garden Merit) for its outstanding qualities. This deciduous shrub can reach a height of 4m, but can easily be kept to 2m. It has rounded grey-green foliage and produces clusters of golden yellow flowers, making it a beautiful addition to any landscape.

When it comes to caring for Buddleja x weyeriana Sungold, pruning is key. It is important to avoid pruning too hard or too early, as this can lead to new shoots growing through the winter and being damaged by frost. The best time to prune is in October/November to loosely shape the shrub, and then again in late March/April for a more thorough pruning. This will not affect flowering and can actually improve it.

Another potential issue with Buddleja is eelworm, which can cause yellow or brown blotches on the leaves and deformed shoots. 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 to eliminate the problem.