Buddleja Alternifolia

1. Description

Buddleja Alternifolia, commonly known as Fountain Butterfly Bush, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the family Scrophulariaceae. This plant is native to China and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. The plant can grow up to 6m tall and has an arching growth habit. The branches have a grayish-brown color and are covered with a dense layer of fine hairs.The plant produces small, fragrant, lilac-colored flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months. The flowers are arranged in clusters and are followed by small, brownish fruit capsules that contain numerous tiny seeds.

2. Taxonomic Information

3. Appearance

Buddleja Alternifolia is a large shrub that can grow up to 6m tall and has an arching growth habit. The leaves are narrow and lanceolate, measuring around 8-15cm long and 1-4cm wide. The upper surface of the leaves is dark green, while the underside is covered with a dense layer of fine hairs.The plant produces small, fragrant, lilac-colored flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months. The flowers are arranged in clusters and are followed by small, brownish fruit capsules that contain numerous tiny seeds.

4. Care Guide

Buddleja Alternifolia is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy:Water: Water your plant regularly during the growing season, making sure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering during the winter months.Fertilization: Fertilize your plant in the spring and summer months using a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.Soil: Buddleja Alternifolia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6.0-7.5 is ideal.Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Make sure it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: Buddleja Alternifolia is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.

5. Common Pests & Diseases

Buddleja Alternifolia is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to the following:Aphids: These small insects can cause damage to the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use a strong jet of water or insecticidal soap to get rid of them.Mites: These tiny insects can cause yellowing and distortion of the leaves. Use a miticide to control them.Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control it.

6. Habitat

Buddleja Alternifolia is native to China and is typically found in forests, thickets, and along stream banks. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of moisture levels.

7. Question and Answer

Q: Can Buddleja Alternifolia be grown in containers?A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its growth.Q: When should I prune my Buddleja Alternifolia?A: Prune your plant in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.Q: Can Buddleja Alternifolia tolerate drought?A: No, this plant prefers moist soil and cannot tolerate prolonged periods of drought.Q: How often should I fertilize my Buddleja Alternifolia?A: Fertilize your plant in the spring and summer months using a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.

9. Related Plants

Here are some related plants that you might be interested in:

• Buddleja Davidii
• Buddleja Globosa
• Buddleja Officinalis

10. References

• https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/buddleja-alternifolia-fountain-butterfly-bush
• https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/18216/buddleja-alternifolia/details
• https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/butterfly-bush/butterfly-bush-care.htm