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Description
Buddleja Asiatica, also known as the Asian butterfly bush, is a perennial shrub that belongs to the Buddlejaceae family. It is native to China, Korea, Japan, and Taiwan. The plant can grow up to 3 meters tall and 2 meters wide, with an upright and spreading growth habit. The leaves are lance-shaped, dark green and hairy on the upper surface, and grayish-white and hairy underneath. The flowers are fragrant and attractive to butterflies and bees, and are often used in traditional Chinese medicine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Buddlejaceae |
| Genus: | Buddleja |
Appearance
Buddleja Asiatica is a deciduous shrub that has an upright and spreading growth habit. It can grow up to 3 meters tall and 2 meters wide. The leaves are lance-shaped, dark green and hairy on the upper surface, and grayish-white and hairy underneath. The flowers are fragrant and bloom in the summer, with colors ranging from white to pink to purple. The inflorescences are panicles, with many small flowers arranged in clusters.
Care Guide
Buddleja Asiatica is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal.
- Sunlight: Buddleja Asiatica prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but the plant will not flower as well.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9. It can tolerate cold temperatures but may die back to the ground in colder zones.
Common Pests & Diseases
Buddleja Asiatica is generally pest and disease resistant, but it may be susceptible to some common problems:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects may feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can affect the leaves of the plant, causing a powdery white coating. It can be controlled with fungicides or by improving air circulation around the plant.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil, and can cause the roots of the plant to rot. It can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Buddleja Asiatica is native to China, Korea, Japan, and Taiwan. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, thickets, and rocky areas. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Buddleja Asiatica a drought-tolerant plant?
A: While the plant can tolerate some drought, it prefers regular watering and moist soil.
Q: Can Buddleja Asiatica grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: Does Buddleja Asiatica attract bees?
A: Yes, the fragrant flowers of the plant are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Q: How often should I prune Buddleja Asiatica?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged wood, and cut back the remaining branches to shape the plant.
Related Plants
- Buddleja davidii
- Buddleja globosa
- Buddleja saligna
- Buddleja crispa
References
- “Buddleja asiatica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 12 July 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f476>.
- “Buddleja asiatica.” Plant Delights Nursery. Accessed 12 July 2021. <https://www.plantdelights.com/products/buddleja-asiatica>.
- “Buddleja asiatica.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 12 July 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/24709/Buddleja-asiatica/Details>.
