Buddleja davidii 'Summer Bird Raspberry'

The Buddleja davidii 'Summer Bird Raspberry', commonly known as the Butterfly Bush, is a beautiful flowering plant that is sure to attract butterflies and other pollinators to your garden. With its striking purple-medium violet flowers and sweet scent, this plant adds color and fragrance to any landscape.

The Butterfly Bush has lanceolate leaves arranged oppositely on its stems. The leaves have serrated margins and a pointed or acute tip. They are deciduous and can grow to a size of 7.5 to 10 cm in length and 1 to 2 cm in width. The leaves are a dark green color, providing a rich backdrop for the vibrant flowers.

Speaking of flowers, the Butterfly Bush produces single type blossoms in the form of panicles. The inflorescence can grow to a length of 10 to 15 cm and has a diameter of 3 to 5 cm. The flowers display a unicolored distribution, showcasing shades of purple-medium violet (N082A). They bloom during the months of June, July, and August, bringing color and life to your garden during the summer season.

In terms of height, the Butterfly Bush can reach between 40 and 50 cm for compact varieties and 70 to 80 cm for larger ones. This makes it a versatile plant that can be used in various garden designs, whether in borders, mixed beds, or containers.

When it comes to soil fertility, the Buddleja davidii 'Summer Bird Raspberry' prefers well-drained soil and does not thrive in poor soils. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels, including alkaline (pH > 7.5), slightly acidic (pH 4.5 - 6.5), and neutral (pH 6.5 - 7.5). Ensuring proper soil drainage and fertility will contribute to the overall health and growth of this plant.

To thrive, the Butterfly Bush requires sunny light conditions. It is best planted in areas that receive full sun exposure throughout the day. Adequate sunlight is crucial for the plant to produce abundant and vibrant flowers.

In terms of winter hardness, the Buddleja davidii 'Summer Bird Raspberry' is reasonably hardy, suitable for USDA zone 7. This means it can tolerate cold temperatures and can survive the winter in regions where the average minimum temperature ranges from 0 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit (-17 to -12 degrees Celsius).

Overall, the Butterfly Bush is a stunning and fragrant addition to any garden. With its beautiful purple-medium violet flowers and sweet scent, it attracts and supports pollinators, making it an excellent choice for eco-friendly and wildlife-friendly landscaping. Its versatile size, adaptability to various soil conditions, and preference for sunny light conditions make it an ideal plant for both experienced and novice gardeners. So, if you're looking to add a touch of color and fragrance to your garden, consider planting the Buddleja davidii 'Summer Bird Raspberry' and enjoy its beauty year after year.

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