Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis) is a structural shrub with white blooms in summer followed by red spherical seed heads. They prefer wet to moist soil in sun to part sun where they can grow to be over 8 feet tall and 8 feet wide. They are a good structural plant for slopes and basins of larger plantings. Underplanting species include Emory’s Sedge (Carex emoryi) and White Turtlehead (Chelone glabra).
Maintenance
When needed, prune in dormant season. Keep the shrub at or below 6 feet tall. Any dead or diseased wood should be removed.
About
Light Requirements
Sun,
Part Sun Moisture Requirements
Slopes,
Basin Soil Requirements
Clay,
Organically Rich Soil,
Saturated Height
Tall,
Very Tall Spacing
4 to 6 feet Category
Structural Attracts
Bees,
Birds,
Butterflies,
Hummingbirds Illinois Native Plant Status
Yes Bloom Time
June,
July Bloom Color
White Seasonality
Fall,
Summer Sociability
Individuals