New Moon Nurseries
Cephalanthus occidentalis
Buttonbush
Native to North America
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 ftSpread:
4-8 ftSpacing:
4-8 ftUSDA Hardiness Zone:
5-9Bloom Color:
WhiteCephalanthus 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
(Asclepias incarnata)
Joe pye weed
(Eupatorium fistulosum)
Blue flag
(Iris versicolor)
Substitutions for Cephalanthus occidentalis
New Jersey tea
(Ceanothus americanus)