Woolly butterfly bush (Buddleja nivea)
Care, watering, light and tips for Woolly butterfly bush on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Scrophulariaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Woolly butterfly bush
Buddleja nivea, also known as snow white butterfly bush or silver-leaf butterfly bush, is an ornamental shrub distinguished by its velvety, silver-white foliage and spikes of purple flowers. It grows to a considerable size, adding distinctive texture and color to garden borders, rockeries, or as a standalone specimen. Its visual appeal makes it an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens with an exotic touch.
Native range
Tibet, China
Care tips
It requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and the best foliage coloration. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings, as it is susceptible to waterlogging. It prefers well-drained soils, even poor or calcareous ones, and is not demanding regarding fertility. A common mistake to avoid is overwatering, especially in winter, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Woolly butterfly bush
- Warning signs
- Wilting, yellowing or dropping leaves, soft stems. Scant or no flowering may occur.
- First aid
- Check watering (moist but not waterlogged soil). Prune dry or damaged branches. Ensure good sunlight.
- What kills it
- Overwatering leading to root rot or lack of light. Does not tolerate waterlogging.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not completely rotted. Act quickly by correcting watering and location.