Plant of the Month – August 2023

Buddleia ‘Flower Power’

August marks the final fleeting weeks of the summer sun, so make sure you make the most of the luscious flowers that thrive in the warmth. One ever-popular flower that will still be delighting gardens up and down the country, and our Plant of the Month, is the Buddleia ‘Flower Power’.

This hybrid boasts several unique colour-changing spires of flowers, flashing with colours ranging from orange to purple, including all shades in between. These fabulous colours inspired the ‘Flower Power’ name, as they mimic the unmistakable themes of the glorious peace and love movement from the 1960s.

‘Flower Power’ was created almost two decades ago, and combine key features from two species of Buddleia, including the Chinese Buddleia davidii and Buddleia x weyeriana, which is known for its compact growth habit.

Pollinator-Friendly Buddleia 

Dozens of wildlife species will swarm to this striking flower, which is also known by its common name of Butterfly Bush, due to its uncanny ability to attract our fluttering friends, as well as bees and other pollinators.

A dream for gardeners of all abilities – easy to care for and can be pruned into late winter or early spring, while growing up to around two metres.

Buddleia work equally well in hot summer borders and shrubberies and will need well-drained borders in particularly sunny spots, for true ‘Flower Power’ to thrive.

Where in the garden should I plant Buddleia ‘Flower Power’?

Buddleia ‘Flower Power’ prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It can tolerate some light shade, but it will not flower as well. The soil should be moist, but not soggy, as this will cause the roots to rot.

What soil types are ideal for growing Buddleia ‘Flower Power’?

This variety grows in most soil types and is easy to look after – ideal for beginners or experts. It can also be grown in a pot too.

It will thrive best in a soil which is rich in organic matter.

Do I need to water my Buddleia ‘Flower Power’?

Of course, these plants require watering, particularly during the hot months of the summer. Try to keep the soil moist, but not soggy, as the leaves will wilt without enough water.

Top Tip for Buddleia ‘Flower Power’

Boost the number of flowers that will bloom by mulching with manure during the autumn months.

Care Guide:

Leave it until late spring before planting to allow time for the soil to warm up.

For pots, plant right up up to early autumn.

For best results, plant in a sunny position in well-drained soil. They will tolerate most conditions aside from wet and heavy clay.

When you notice the flowers starting to fade, ensure to deadhead as this will encourage a continuous floral supply.

 

2 Comments on “Plant of the Month – August 2023”

  1. I have 2 Buddleia’s in my front garden and all we do to them is prune them back in the spring, and sit back and watch them rejuvenate ready to flower during the summer months. They are a great hardy plant that attract many butterflies these plants l have had for 30 years and give much pleasure. Would recommend to anyone whether you have a small or large garden.

  2. I have 2 Buddleia’s in my front garden and all we do to them is prune them back in the spring, and sit back and watch them rejuvenate ready to flower during the summer months. They are a great hardy plant that attract many butterflies these plants l have had for 30 years and give much pleasure. Would recommend to anyone whether you have a small or large garden.

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