Home Prairie and Wetland Center
16245 S US Hwy 71
Belton, MO 64012
Tel: (816) 331-9738
Fax: (816) 331-9739

Cephalanthus occidentalis

Buttonbush

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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.

Additional Information:


Height
3-6 Feet

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Spread
3-6 Feet

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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 (Packera aureus), Pawpaw (Asimina triloba), Blue Lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica), Marsh Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata)

Characteristics & Attributes

Hydrologic Designation

OBL

Nature Attracting

Butterfly
Beneficial Insects
Songbird

Season of Interest

Late (July-frost)

Soil Moisture

High

Special Uses

Bog
Fragrant

Sun Exposure

Full Sun
Medium Sun/Average Shade

USFS MO Ecological Map

Wildlife Benefit

Butterfly Nectar
Food/Birds
Nesting
Cover
Food/Small Animals