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Cephalanthus occidentalis

Buttonbush

Native to North America


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A deciduous shrub commonly found in moist to wet areas in full sun to partial shade.  Long 6" leaves do not emerge until late spring.  In early to mid-summer, very interesting white globed shaped flowers appear that look like pin cushions complete with pins which are extremely attractive to polinators and butterflies.  Fruit persists into winter adding winter interest.  

Host plant for titan sphinx moth, hydrangea sphinx and the royal walnut moth.


Height:

5-12 ft

Spread:

4-8 ft

Spacing:

4-8 ft

USDA Hardiness Zone:

5-9

Bloom Color:

White

Cephalanthus occidentalis Characteristics

Attracts Wildlife

  • Butterflies
  • Pollinators

Attributes

  • Naturalizing
  • East-Coast Native
  • Dried Flower
  • Cut Flower
  • Rain Garden
  • Bog

Exposure

  • Full Sun to Partial Shade

Flowering Months

  • June

Foliage Color

  • Green

Growth Rate

  • Slow

Season of Interest (Foliage)

  • Summer
  • Winter
  • Fall

Soil Moisture Preference

  • Moist to Wet

Plants that work well with Cephalanthus occidentalis ''

Swamp milkweed Swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata)
Joe pye weed Joe pye weed (Eupatorium fistulosum)
Blue flag Blue flag (Iris versicolor)

Substitutions for Cephalanthus occidentalis

New Jersey tea New Jersey tea (Ceanothus americanus)