Anyone who knows it will probably love it - the buddleia. Gardeners believe that with this flowering tree they are not only doing something good for themselves, but also for the insect world. But there is a reason to think carefully about planting beforehand
Is buddleia forbidden in Germany?
The buddleia is not banned in GermanyHowever, conservationists are calling for a ban, as has already been enforced in Switzerland. The reason is that this plant displaces native plants in this country. It does this through its strong self-seeding ability.
Are there countries where buddleia is banned?
Although buddleia is not banned in Germany, but inSwitzerland Growing this plant in private gardens is punishable by pen alties. A ban in Germany is being called for by nature conservation organizations and may well be enforced in the next few years.
Why is the buddleia a neophyte?
Since the buddleia isnot native to this country, it is considered a neophyte, similar to the glandular balsam. Buddleja davidii does not originate in Europe, but inAsia. The tree is mainly found in China and Tibet.
Why is the buddleia controversial?
The buddleia, also known as butterfly lilac, is controversial because it canspread enormously. It is considered invasive because with its numerous small seeds it sows itself quickly and with the help of the wind. Other plants are often pushed out because the buddleia has considerable assertiveness and does not place high demands on the location. Last but not least, the butterfly lilac is controversial because it is poisonous to humans and animals.
How can buddleia be kept under control?
It is best to plant the buddleia in the first placenotand if so, clean it outregularly Withered flower spikes should be removed immediately, before the germinating seeds can form and spread. To do this, check the buddleia several times a week when it is blooming in summer and cut off the wilted inflorescences. Ideally, you should not dispose of these in the compost, but rather in household waste.
Does the buddleia pose a threat to insects?
The butterfly bush representsno threat to the insect world. Rather, it offers some insects a valuable source of food throughout the summer and into autumn. Its flower spikes are full of nectar, which butterflies, honey bees and other insects like to consume. However, the buddleia cannot provide food for growing butterfly caterpillars. These avoid the leaves of this neophyte. That's why it is viewed rather critically as a butterfly plant.
Tip
Planting sterile varieties of buddleia
If you don't want to do without buddleia in the garden, but don't have much time to remove wilted flowers and thus prevent self-sowing, you can choose a sterile variety of this plant. They don't reproduce. Otherwise, one fertile plant can produce up to three million seeds.
