Black Knight Butterfly Bush
Buddleja davidii 'Black Knight'The Black Knight Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii ‘Black Knight’) is a striking, pollinator-friendly shrub renowned for its deep, velvety purple flower spikes that bloom from summer through fall. Its dramatic color and intoxicating fragrance make it a magnet for butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds, adding both life and movement to your garden. With an upright, arching growth habit, it reaches 5–6 feet in height and 4–5 feet in width, making it ideal for garden borders, hedges, or as a bold standalone focal point. Its lush green foliage provides year-round structure, while the dark blooms create a stunning contrast against lighter-colored plants, offering visual interest throughout the season.
The Black Knight Butterfly Bush is not only beautiful but also low-maintenance. It thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, tolerates drought once established, and responds well to pruning to maintain shape and encourage abundant flowering. Its fast growth and hardiness make it a favorite for gardeners seeking both dramatic color and reliable performance.
Care Instructions
Planting:
Plant in full sun for maximum blooms. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball and place the plant at the same depth. Space 4–6 feet apart for healthy growth.
Watering:
Water deeply during the first growing season. Once established, the bush is moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering.
Pruning:
Prune in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and larger flower spikes. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Pest Control:
Generally pest-resistant. Keep an eye out for spider mites or aphids and treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap if needed.
Soil Tips:
Prefers well-draining soil with moderate fertility. Avoid waterlogged soils to prevent root rot and maintain healthy growth.
