Recently I posted a blog advising that this is a good time to prune butterfly bushes (Buddleia davidii). In response a The blogger’s posted a response that simply stated that since butterfly bush has the reputation of sometimes being invasive, gardeners should plant native plants as an alternative to this non-native. I am glad the blogger brought up this important issue.
Butterfly bush is native to China. It is one of the many ornamentals that have been brought to North America throughout our history. Unfortunately, some of these plants have proven to be invasive and usurp habitats populated by native species and cause problems for native wildlife.
In the case of butterfly bush, several states have placed it on their invasive species list. However, to date, the Georgia Invasive Plant Council has not done so in the Peach State. This does not mean it is not a problem in some areas in the state. If it has, I am not aware of it. My wife and I live in Middle Georgia and have planted butterfly bush for years. To date, we have never found any evidence that butterfly bush has escaped confines of our yard.
It is true that an exotic such as butterfly bush can occupy a spot where a native plant can grow. In fact, many Georgia homeowners are converting their property to strictly natives. I think this is a great idea. Others, on the other hand, are just beginning to realize the value of native plants and are methodically adding more natives to their yard each year. In the meantime, they can continue to enjoy the beauty of zinnias, glossy abelia, and non-natives that are not invasive.
There are a number of native plants that you can crow instead of butterfly bush. This list includes joe-pye-weed, goldenrod, blazing star, purple coneflower, buttonbush, and Georgia mint.
If you harbor any concern that butterfly bush is an invasive in your part of the state, contact your County University of Georgia Cooperative Extension office. They can advise you whether butterfly bush is a problem in your locale. If you find that it is, please let me know.
I want to thank the blogger that brought up this issue. Deciding what we plant on our property can have huge implications on our environment. When it comes to invasive plants, we do not want to be part of the problem.
