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Buttonbush

Cephalanthus occidentalis

perennial herb View on Calscape

Care

Sun

full sun

Water

moderate

Soil

Fast, Medium, Slow; Tolerates a wide variety of soils and drainage types.

Size

3–20ft tall , 3–15ft wide

Bloom

Jun-Nov

Foliage

Deciduous

Deer

Resistant

Fragrant

Yes

Flowers

Prized

Native Range

Eastern North America; not native to California but occasionally planted in riparian areas.

Care Guide

Planting

Plant your buttonbush in full sun in a location that stays consistently moist - ideally near a water source, stream, or low-lying area that naturally holds moisture. It tolerates a wide variety of soil types and drainage conditions, so soil preparation is minimal; just ensure the spot won't dry out completely. Plant in spring or fall when the plant is dormant. Space according to your desired mature size, keeping in mind buttonbush can reach 3–20 feet tall depending on growing conditions.

After Planting

Keep the soil moist through your first summer; this is the most critical establishment period. Once established, buttonbush needs only moderate water and can handle the Bay Area's drier months, though it will perform best if you don't let it completely dry out. The plant is deciduous and will drop its leaves in winter - this is normal. The #1 mistake is planting it in a spot that dries out; buttonbush thrives with consistent moisture, so avoid hot, dry microclimates.

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