The unexpected joy of growing Butterfly Bush

I planted Butterfly Bush without expecting much and it's become one of the most satisfying things in my garden. wide range from ground-covering species to large specimens is something I couldn't have predicted from looking at it in a nursery. You only understand it once the plant is established and performing.

I keep it in a mixed shrub border providing year-round structure which is perfect for it. deadheading where appropriate to extend the flowering season was the thing I got lucky getting right early. summer flowering on the current season's growth stopped me in my tracks the first time I saw it. failure to flower when pruned at the wrong time is a real thing — just check regularly and deal with it quickly.