Most Fragrant Butterfly Bush for PA?

9 years ago

Winter has killed several of the smaller varieties over the years so I am looking for one 4-6' that has an amazing fragrance, reblooms and can be trimmed. Any suggestions?

Terri

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Comments (5)

CEFreeman
9 years ago
huh.
I LOVE my Black Knight and Royal Red, but they get a bit big. Their scent and color are amazing. They did get slammed by the cold this year, but I just chopped them down to the ground and they're like new shrubs.

Check the Botany shop.

Here is a link that might be useful: Botany Shop
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treehugger101
Original Author
9 years ago
CEFreeman - Thanks for the link. Your bushes look amazing but wow. They are way too big for my space. I am hoping someone posts here with short and "sweet" varieties. Thanks so much!!!
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They're not invasive in FL. If I lived in PNW, UK, or Mid-Atlantic I would not grow them but they are annihilated here by nematodes haha so there's no threat of them escaping I also always deadhead mine (which are in pots on a walkway) since I grow them for pollinators and want to maximize the bloom period. I have a variety of native flowers too but most start up later in the season. but i do understand how they are problematic in other areas
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treehugger101
Original Author
9 years ago
Anyone know anything about Ellen's Blue? Is it fragrant? Do butterflies love it? I have seen butterfly bushes that are ignored by butterflies and even bees. Thanks for your help.
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sam_md
9 years ago
I have linked an article about research by Longwood Gardens on BB, its worth reading.

Here is a link that might be useful: Butterfly Bush article
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agardenstateof_mind
9 years ago
Thank you, Sam, for an excellent article. As gardeners, we have a responsibility to be well-informed, good stewards.

The problem with butterfly bush, aside from possible invasive tendencies, is that although butterflies, bees, and other pollinators may love the nectar, it provides no food for the caterpillars. No caterpillars = no butterflies.
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Most Fragrant Butterfly Bush for PA?

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CEFreeman

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Most Fragrant Butterfly Bush for PA?

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CEFreeman

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sam_md

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