Invasive Species: Butterfly Bush

Buddleja davidii

While beautiful, butterfly bush forms dense thickets crowding out native plants.

It was first documented in 1939 near Eugene in Lane County.

Why is it important to control?

Butterfly bush forms dense thickets along riverbanks, crowds out native plants, and may alter soil chemistry. It reproduces by seeds with high germination rate and cut stems that can sprout roots.

How can you identify it?

Close up image of butterfly bush leafImage of close up of underside of butterfly bush leaf
Habitat: Sunny locations with well drained soil. Disturbed areas.
Life Cycle: Perennial
Height: 10-15ft
Leaf Description: Leaves are arranged opposite and are lance-shaped. Each leaf is gray-green with woolly, white hairs underneath.
Fruit & Flower Description: Small, fragrant flowers arranged in a cone-shaped flower spike. Commonly bright purple but may be white, pink or red.
Bloom Time: July to September

How do you control it?

  • Pull or dig out seedlings and small plants with hand tools. Remove as much of the root as possible.

  • Dispose of mature seed heads in a plastic bag. Put the bag in the trash. Other plant parts may be composted.

  • Herbicides effectively control butterfly bush when used according to the label directions.

  • Herbicide control:  Oregon State University Extension recommends a triclopyr or glyphosate based herbicide. Take care to avoid drift and be cautious near crops. FOLLOW ALL LABEL DIRECTIONS!

  • The Oregon Department of Agriculture has no approved biocontrols.

How to report it?

There are various ways you can report this noxious weed.

For More Info: