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Description
Buddleja Salviifolia, also known as Sageleaf Butterfly Bush, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family. This evergreen shrub is native to South Africa, where it grows in rocky outcrops, along streams, and in bushveld areas. The plant can grow up to 3 meters in height and 4 meters in width. Buddleja Salviifolia is an excellent choice for a garden due to its showy flowers, attractive foliage, and its ability to attract butterflies and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus | Buddleja |
Appearance
The Buddleja Salviifolia has narrow, oval, and silvery-green leaves that are about 8cm long. The leaves are covered in fine hairs that give them a velvety texture. The plant produces clusters of fragrant, tubular, and small flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are usually pinkish-lilac in color and attract numerous butterflies and bees. The plant’s bark is grayish-brown, and its branches are thin and fragile.
Care Guide
Buddleja Salviifolia is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy:
- Water: The plant requires moderate watering. Water it only when the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Buddleja Salviifolia prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy to USDA Zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Buddleja Salviifolia is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may occasionally be affected by spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids. To prevent these pests, prune the plant regularly and keep it well-watered. The plant is also susceptible to root rot, which can be caused by overwatering.
Habitat
Buddleja Salviifolia is native to South Africa, where it grows in rocky outcrops, along streams, and in bushveld areas. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It can also tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How tall can Buddleja Salviifolia grow?
A: Buddleja Salviifolia can grow up to 3 meters in height and 4 meters in width.
Q: Does Buddleja Salviifolia attract butterflies?
A: Yes, Buddleja Salviifolia is an excellent choice for a garden due to its showy flowers, attractive foliage, and its ability to attract butterflies and other pollinators.
Q: How often should I water my Buddleja Salviifolia?
A: Water the plant only when the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
Q: Is Buddleja Salviifolia hardy?
A: Yes, the plant is hardy to USDA Zones 8-11.
Related Plants
- Buddleja Davidii
- Buddleja Globosa
- Buddleja Crispa
- Buddleja Alternifolia
References
- “Buddleja Salviifolia.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute. https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/buddlesalviifol.htm
- “Sageleaf Butterfly Bush.” Monrovia. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/1816/sageleaf-butterfly-bush/
