Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis)

Buttonbush

Cephalanthus occidentalis

Other Common Names: Button Willow

Top Pick: A moisture-loving native shrub with unique spherical blooms that support pollinators and thrive in rain gardens.

Quick Plant Info

• ☀️ Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• 💧 Water: Medium to High
• 🌿 Type: Shrub
• 📏 Mature Size: 6–12 ft tall × 6–12 ft wide

Description

A bold native shrub with distinctive round flowers that thrives in wet conditions and supports a wide range of wildlife.

Buttonbush produces unique spherical blooms made up of many small flowers, creating a striking summer display. It naturally grows in low, wet areas and is well-suited to rain gardens and habitat plantings.

🌼 Why it works

• Thrives in wet or poorly drained soils
• Unique, eye-catching flower form
• Excellent for rain gardens and low areas
• Supports a wide range of pollinators

🐦 Wildlife value

A strong nectar source for butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.

Provides cover and contributes to habitat structure in wet environments.

🌱 Where it thrives

Best in full sun to part shade with consistent moisture. It performs well in rain gardens, along ponds, and in low-lying areas.

• Rain gardens and low areas
• Pond and water edges
• Habitat plantings

Soil: Prefers moist to wet soils and tolerates periodic flooding.

✂️ Growth & maintenance

Minimal maintenance required. Prune as needed to shape or control size.

💧 Water (establishment note)

Water regularly during establishment; once established, Buttonbush thrives in consistently moist to wet conditions.

Pickup Information

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