Button Bush

25 plants per unit

Cephalanthus occidentalis, or Button Bush, is native to the eastern two-thirds of Kansas, and is adaptable statewide. It is usually found in wetlands and along streams and lakes. Button bush gets 15 feet tall and 8 feet wide at full maturity. Growth is moderately fast; expect almost 12 inches per year once established.

Leaves, Stems and Fruit

Leaves emerge in late spring and are glossy green with ovate to elliptic leaf shape. Tiny fragrant white flowers appear on a spherical ball-like head in early to mid-summer. These flower heads mature into ball-like fuits of multiple, two seeded, nutlets.

Uses
Wildlife - It's flowers attract butterflies and other insect which, in turn, attracts various songbirds and bees.

Windbreaks - It may be used to provide good windscreen or windbreak component, especially in wetter soils.

Riparian Planting -Since button bush is native to stream banks, its fibrous roots hold soil in place. Adapted to periods of flood follwed by drier periods.

Adaptation and Soil
Thrives in moist soils, including wetlands. Tolerant of moderate drought once established. Adapted to most soil pHs, but cannot abide high salinity. Also tolerant of both sun and shade.

Spacing
Normally spacing is 4 feet between plants.

Culture
One-year old, bareroot seedlings 18 - 24 inches tall are used in conservation plantings. For best success and survivability, water every 7 to 10 days or as soil becomes dry. Keep the immediate area surrounding the plants free of weeds and grass to minimize competition.

Pests
None serious.