Cephalanthus occidentalis, commonly known as buttonbush, is a multi-stemmed, deciduous shrub that is native to eastern and central North America. It typically grows 5-15 feet tall and wide, with an upright, rounded habit. The plant's most distinctive feature is its spherical, creamy white flower clusters that resemble button-like balls. These fragrant blooms appear in mid-to-late summer and attract a variety of pollinators, including butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. Cephalanthus occidentalis prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It tolerates a range of soil types, including clay, and can even thrive in wet, boggy conditions, making it a good choice for rain gardens or pond/stream-side plantings. In the landscape, buttonbush provides multi-season interest with its lush, glossy green foliage, showy summer blooms, and interesting seed heads in fall. It works well in naturalized areas, mixed borders, and as a specimen plant. Cephalanthus occidentalis is a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant shrub once established. Pruning is generally not required, aside from removing any dead or damaged wood in early spring. Overall, this native plant is an excellent choice for adding both beauty and wildlife value to the garden.
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Attracts Birds, Deciduous, Full Sun, Good for Rain Garden, Illinois Native, Native to North America, Partial Shade, Perennial, Shrub, Wet, Wet Site Tolerant
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