Buttonbush – Cephalanthus occidentalis

The Common Button Bush, which is native to Vermont, is an excellent choice for riparian buffer zones as it grows well along stream banks and wetlands. These shrubs are resilient to floods and can grow up to 6-10 ft. high when fully mature. You can plant them in naturalized areas along streams or ponds, or grow them in a shrub border with moist soil. The ball-shaped, creamy white flowers bloom in August and are irresistible to butterflies and insects. Additionally, the nut-like seeds are a favorite meal for many waterfowl, and birds use them as nesting sites. These bushes can even thrive in rain gardens. Buttonbush is a native shrub with unique flowers that thrives in wet areas and attracts butterflies. It has glossy green leaves and fragrant, round flower clusters during mid-summer. Native to the eastern United States, buttonbush attracts more than 24 species of birds, as well as numerous species of butterflies. The attractiveness to butterflies makes button bush an excellent alternative to the non-native, invasive butterfly bush (Buddleia spp.).

Bare Root Plant Size: 2-3 feet
Height at Maturity: 6-12 feet