Cephalanthus occidentalis

Buttonbush

Hundreds of ball-shaped, creamy white flowers dangle from the bush in August. Butterflies and insects find the nectar irresistable. The nutlike seeds are eaten by many waterfowl and many types of birds use it as a nesting site. Found in low, wet woods, swamps and along streams and ponds, the Buttonbush is an excellent selection for rain gardens or water garden landscapes.

Height 3-6 Feet

Spread 3-6 Feet

Bloom/Seasonal Color White

USDA Hardiness Zone 5-10

Home Owner Growing and Maintenance Tips:
Plant in a naturalized areas along streams or ponds or grow in a shrub border with moist soil. Attracts butterflies and provides food and nesting sites for birds.

Good Companions Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis), Golden Ragwort (Senecio aureus), Pawpaw (Asimina triloba), Blue Lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica), Marsh Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata)

Characteristics & Attributes

Hydrologic Designation • OBL	Nature Attracting • Beneficial Insects • Songbird • Butterfly	Season of Interest • Late (July-frost)
Soil Moisture • High	Special Uses • Fragrant • Bog	Sun Exposure • Full Sun • Medium Sun/Average Shade
USFS MO Ecological Map • Central Dissected Till Plain • Osage Plains • Mississippi Aluvial Basin • Ozark Highlands	Wildlife Benefit • Cover • Food/Small Animals • Butterfly Nectar • Food/Birds • Nesting