Butterfly Bush 'Pugster Blue'

Scientific Name: Buddleja davidii 'Pugster Blue'

Plant Family: Scrophulariaceae

Native Region: China and Japan; now widely cultivated worldwide as an ornamental

Butterfly Bush 'Pugster Blue'

Brief Description

A dwarf, deciduous shrub characterized by thick, sturdy stems and large, fragrant, cone-shaped purple-blue flower clusters. It has lance-shaped green leaves and a compact, mounded habit.

Care Instructions

Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Water regularly until established, then it is quite drought-tolerant. Prune back in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and maintain shape. Fertilize once in early spring.

Medicinal Value

We do not currently provide medicinal value for plant identifications.

Sunlight

Full sun (6+ hours per day) is best for optimal flowering and sturdy stems.

Watering

Moderate watering needs. Needs consistent moisture during the first year, but is drought-tolerant once established. Signs of underwatering include wilting leaves.

Soil

Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0). Avoid heavy clay or soggy conditions.

Hardiness Zone

USDA Zones 5-9

Growth Habit

Dwarf deciduous perennial shrub with a compact, mounded growth habit. Reaches a mature height and spread of about 2 feet by 2 feet.

Bloom Season

Flowers from early summer through first frost. Produces large, dense, cone-shaped spikes of true-blue to violet flowers with tiny orange eyes.

Toxicity

Generally considered non-toxic to humans, dogs, and cats. However, ingestion of any plant material may cause mild stomach upset.

Propagation

Propagated through softwood cuttings in summer or semi-hardwood cuttings in fall. Patents often protect specific cultivars like 'Pugster'.

Common Pests & Issues

Prone to spider mites in hot, dry conditions and root rot in poorly drained soil. Downy mildew may occur in humid climates.

Similar Species

Distinguished from other Buddleja davidii cultivars by its extremely compact size and unusually thick, sturdy stems for a dwarf variety.

Interesting Facts

The 'Pugster' series is named for its short, stocky stature, similar to a Pug dog. Unlike many older varieties, it is bred to bloom continuously without needing deadheading (removal of spent flowers).

Created At: 2026-05-19T17:39:52.017791