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Description
Buddleja Davidii Black Knight, also known as Butterfly Bush, is a deciduous flowering plant that belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family. It is native to China and can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide. The plant produces long, cone-shaped clusters of fragrant dark purple flowers that bloom from midsummer to fall. The plant is also known for attracting butterflies and other pollinators to the garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus | Buddleja |
| Species | Davidii |
Appearance
Buddleja Davidii Black Knight has an upright habit and can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide. Its leaves are lance-shaped, gray-green, and have a slightly fuzzy texture. The plant produces long, cone-shaped clusters of fragrant dark purple flowers that bloom from midsummer to fall. The flowers are about 6-8 inches long and attract butterflies and other pollinators to the garden. The bark of the plant is light brown and has a slightly rough texture.
Care Guide
To care for Buddleja Davidii Black Knight, it is essential to provide the right amount of water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and ensure it is grown in the right hardiness zone.Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. It is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: The plant needs regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, but it is essential to avoid waterlogged soil.Sunlight: The plant requires full sun exposure to thrive. It can tolerate partial shade, but it may affect its growth and flowering.Hardiness Zones: Buddleja Davidii Black Knight is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Buddleja Davidii Black Knight is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. To prevent pest and disease infestations, it is essential to maintain good plant hygiene by removing dead and diseased plant parts regularly. In severe infestations, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control the pests.
Habitat
Buddleja Davidii Black Knight is native to China and is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes worldwide. The plant prefers full sun exposure and can grow in a wide range of soil types. It can tolerate drought and heat, making it an excellent plant for arid regions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Buddleja Davidii Black Knight?
A: The plant requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. It is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Does Buddleja Davidii Black Knight need fertilization?
A: Yes, the plant needs regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Q: Can Buddleja Davidii Black Knight tolerate shade?
A: The plant requires full sun exposure to thrive. It can tolerate partial shade, but it may affect its growth and flowering.
Q: How tall can Buddleja Davidii Black Knight grow?
A: Buddleja Davidii Black Knight can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide.
Related Plants
- Buddleja Davidii
- Buddleja Globosa
- Buddleja Alternifolia
- Buddleja Crispa
References
- “Buddleja davidii ‘Black Knight’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b118.
- “Buddleja davidii ‘Black Knight’.” Plant Care Today. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/butterfly-bush-buddleja-davidii-black-knight.html.
- “Buddleja davidii ‘Black Knight’.” The Spruce. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/buddleja-davidii-black-knight-plant-profile-4768735.
