Butterfly bush - Rotheca myricoides (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Butterfly bush

Also known as: Blue butterfly bush, Blue-flowered tinderwood

A scrambling variety of shrub, butterfly bush is native to Africa. It gets its common name from its beautiful flowers, which resemble butterflies in flight. This shrub can be grown as an evergreen in frost-free areas. It grows well in containers and flowerbeds, as well.

Scientific classification

Species

Butterfly bush (Rotheca myricoides)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Purple, Blue, White, Green, Violet

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Butterfly bush

Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Butterfly bush, including the following common varieties :

Butterfly bush 'Ugandense'

Care Guide for Butterfly bush

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Butterfly bush thrives in moderate hydration typical of semi-arid regions, needing watering every 2-3 weeks. As an outdoor plant, it benefits from mulching to retain soil moisture and enhance flowering potential, showcasing its drought-tolerant nature.

Fertilize: Fertilize butterfly bush quarterly with a balanced fertilizer to enhance growth and blooms. Use diluted liquid formulas, watering afterward to aid absorption. Apply during spring and summer, reducing in fall and winter to minimize stress. Evenly distribute at the base to ensure nutrient access.

Pruning: Butterfly bush features attractive blue blooms and a shrubby form. Prune in late spring post-flowering to enhance density and bloom production. Eliminate dead or crossed branches for improved circulation. Cutting back one-third of last year's growth maintains shape and vigor, promoting robust flowering annually.

Propagation: Butterfly bush is an ornamental shrub, adored for its flowers and butterfly attraction. Propagation via softwood cuttings from vigorous shoots is effective. Place cuttings in a moist, well-draining medium under indirect light, and consider using rooting hormone for better root system development.

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