The buddleia produces a large number of long and arching flower panicles over the course of its existence. Whether in white, pink, purple or even yellow - butterflies seem to be magically attracted to them
What value does buddleia have for butterflies?
The buddleia isvaluable for butterflies because, thanks to its flowers, it offers them plenty of nectar over a long period of time. However, it is also controversial due to its lack of attractiveness for egg laying. Butterfly caterpillars cannot feed on it.
Why is buddleia valuable for butterflies?
The buddleia is of great value to butterflies due to its considerable amount ofnectar It offers butterflies and other insects numerous flower spikes that are filled with nectar-soaked individual flowers and this over a long period of time away. Buddleia can be a valuable food source for butterflies until fall. This also closes gaps in late summer costumes.
Do butterflies like buddleia?
Butterflies literally seem toadore the buddleia, because theyseek it out immediately, as if they were magnetically attracted to it. This is why this ornamental shrub is also called butterfly lilac or butterfly bush. The reasons for its high attraction are its honey-like scent and, depending on the variety, its bright flower colors that cannot be overlooked by butterflies.
Which butterflies like to visit the buddleia?
Among the butterflies, there are especially thepeacock butterfly, thecabbage white butterfly, theAdmiralas well as thePigeontail, who like to visit the buddleia. Moths are also interested in this flowering tree and recharge their batteries with its flowers.
To what extent is buddleia controversial for butterflies?
Although the buddleia offers nectar to butterflies, it cannotserve asfoodfor thebutterfly caterpillarsserve. For this reason, butterflies do not lay their eggs on Buddleja, but rather look for other plants that are compatible and nutritious enough for their caterpillars. In addition, the butterfly bush is controversial because it spreads widely in its location using its seedsIt is considered a neophyte that displaces invasive native plants.
How can buddleia be butterfly-friendly for a long time?
Aregular cleaning during the flowering period keeps the buddleia blooming for a long time and makes it a breeding ground for butterflies. Simply cut off any wilted buddleia flowers. New branches and flower spikes then form.
How does the buddleia become a butterfly paradise?
The buddleia becomes a butterfly paradise ininteraction with other plants in the immediate vicinity. Simply plant plants next to them where butterflies like to lay their eggs and where their caterpillars can later feed. These include fodder plants such as: cabbage, nettles, wild carrot, horn trefoil, gorse, purple loosestrife and waterweed.
Tip
Buddleia - not only interesting for butterflies
Other insects also like Buddleja davidii. For example, bumblebees and various bee species appreciate this flowering tree and, like butterflies, like to visit it for its nectar.