Summer lilac Buddleja comes from the figwort family. It is not related to the true lilac, even if they are very similar in the shape of the flowers. With its long flowering period, the colorful flower panicles and the uncomplicated nature, summer lilac has won many lovers over the years. Not to forget the delicate floral scent of its blossoms. The flowering period can be extended a little with a little help.
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When is summer lilac flowering?
In contrast to real lilac (Syringa) counts Summer- or butterfly lilac (Buddleja) to the late bloomers. It takes its time with its grand entrance, displaying its white, pink, red, blue or purple flowers. In all species, they sit at the ends of the branches or the tips of the shoots. The most common species in home gardens are Buddleja davidii and Buddleja alternifolia (Change-leaved or narrow-leaved summer lilac).
The species is seen much less frequently Buddleja albiflora (white butterfly bush) and Buddleja globosa (Ball Buddleia). They are still relatively unknown Buddleja buzz hybrids (dwarf summer lilac), new and still relatively unknown breeds. But when does the butterfly bush bloom? The main flowering time for most buddleia species is between July and September, although it varies somewhat within the individual species.
White butterfly bush, Buddleja albiflora
Buddleia species
Buddleja davidii and Buddleja alternifolia
- Buddleja davidii, the best-known representative of the summer lilacs
- shows its flowers from July to September
- some of them are in bloom until October or until the first frost
- a single flower does not survive the flowering period
- alternate Buddleja alternifolia seen less often
- also known as hanging summer lilac
- usually blooms a little more profusely but shorter than Buddleja davidii
- is in full bloom from June to July
- Flowers of both species exude a sweet, honey-like scent
Buddleja globosa and Buddleja albiflora
The globular and lamellar, yolk-yellow flowers of Buddleja globosa are rather untypical for a butterfly bush and are only very rarely found in domestic gardens. This shrubby lilac flowers from July to September, as does the white-flowered summer lilac Buddleja albiflora with its white, tart, spicy-scented flowers.
Summer lilac, Buddleja
Buddleja buzz hybrids
The fast-growing shrubs of the so-called buzz hybrids remain comparatively low, so that their flowering splendor is particularly effective in tubs. Buzz hybrids also bloom from July-September.
Tip: The narrow-leaved Buddleja alternifolia is particularly effective in a solitary position, while Buddleja davidii can also be combined very well with other flowering shrubs. However, underplanting with colour-coordinated annuals or perennials suits both species very well, regardless of when they bloom.
Summer lilac, Buddleja
extend flowering time
Extend flowering time with just a few simple steps
The flowering period of each flower does not last from July to September. Therefore it is important withered flowers to be removed regularly and consistently. In this way, the flowering period can easily be extended into late autumn. Wherever withered flowers have been cut off, new ones will appear. This also has the advantage that uncontrolled spread via seeds is prevented.
In addition, the right cut promote the lushness of the flower. For this you should know that Buddleja davidii only on this year and Buddleja alternifolia flowers on two-year-old wood. Consequently, the latter should only be thinned out a little after flowering or a few old shoots should be cut out to rejuvenate. It looks different Buddleja davidii out. It can be cut back around March, if necessary a little more.