Grand Cascade Butterfly Bush

Size

True to its name, this butterfly bush produces cascades of fragrant 12 to 14 lavender colored flower panicles that do indeed attract butterflies and a variety of other pollinators. Flower buds emerge from the fragrant foliage at the end of arching stems from July to early fall on plants that are 5 to 6 feet in height with a 6 to 8 foot spread. A low maintenance perennial that is easy to grow, drought tolerant and deer resistant, it would make a beautiful focal point in the garden, foundation planting, an informal hedge or grown in a pot or container. Winter hardy in zones 5 to 9, plants grown in pots or containers would need to be moved indoors for the winter in areas where the temperatures fall below freezing for extended periods of time. Grand Cascade Butterfly Bush Care This butterfly bush is best planted in full sun in an area where the soil is fertile, moist, slightly acidic and well-drained. Native to China and Asia. Deadhead any passed blooms to encourage new growth and prevent the production of seed. After flowering has passed let the woody stems remain for winter interest and cut back to 12 inches above the ground in spring. It is best not to prune the plants in late fall. In severe winters the plant may die all the way back to the ground but new growth will emerge from the roots in spring. Some butterfly bushes will readily self seed. Grand Cascade Butterfly Bush Spacing Butterfly bushes should be spaced at a distance of 6 to 8 feet when planted as an informal hedge, foundation or accent planting in the perennial bed. One plant per large container or pot would be sufficient.