Buttonbush

Buttonbush is a distinctive wetland shrub that adds interest and ecological value to any moist landscape setting. It typically grows 6 to 12 feet tall and features glossy green leaves and unusual, fragrant white flowers that bloom as dense, globular "buttons" from late spring to midsummer. These Seussian flowers are highly attractive to pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds (yes, even hummingbirds!); and the shrub's dense foliage offers nesting sites for birds. Following its flowering period, Buttonbush produces small, similarly button-like seed heads that persist into winter, providing food for various wildlife. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers wet or consistently moist soils, making it ideal for areas near bodies of water or in rain gardens.

• Requires ample moisture; ideal for areas with natural water retention or regular supplemental watering such as near or in a storm drain or swale.
• Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the shrub and remove any dead or damaged branches.
• Prefers wet, rich soils; can tolerate clay, standing water, and occasional flooding.
• If needed, apply a layer of organic mulch to help retain soil moisture and protect the root system.
• Monitor for pests and diseases, though buttonbush is generally low-maintenance and disease-resistant.