Liliac de vara parfumat - Buddleja davidii 'Ile de France' (Butterfly Bush)

Buddleja davidii 'Ile de France' , also known as the 'butterfly bush' or 'summer lilac', is a cultivar of the species Buddleja davidii in the Scrophulariaceae family. This deciduous shrub is renowned for its long, fragrant, deep purple flowers that attract butterflies and other pollinators. Originally from China, 'Ile de France' is a popular choice for gardens due to its abundant flowering and decorative appearance.

Appearance of leaves, flowers and fruits

• Leaves : The leaves are lanceolate, dark gray-green on the front and silvery on the back, with a slightly velvety texture, 10-25 cm long. They are arranged oppositely on the branches and fall in autumn, without developing significant colors.
• Flowers : The flowers are small, tubular, grouped in long, conical panicles , 20-30 cm, of a deep purple-violet , with an orange center. They appear from July to September , emanating a sweet, honey-like fragrance , which attracts butterflies, bees and moths. Flowering is continuous if the wilted flowers are removed.
• Fruit : The fruit is a small, brown, ornamentally insignificant capsule containing fine seeds. In some regions, the seeds may contribute to the invasive spread of the plant.
• Fragrance : The floral, intense and sweet fragrance is a strong point, being more pronounced on warm days.

Growth characteristics

• Height and width : Grows as a vigorous shrub, reaching 2-3 meters tall and 2-2.5 meters wide , with arching branches that form a spreading crown.
• Vigor : It has rapid growth, producing long, flexible branches in a single season.
• Type : It is a deciduous shrub with multiple stems that can produce shoots from the root under favorable conditions.

Growing conditions

• Exposure : Prefers full sun for maximum flowering, but tolerates partial shade , with a reduction in the number of flowers. A sunny and airy location is ideal to prevent diseases.
• Soil : Adapts to most soil types, preferring fertile, well-drained soil with a neutral or slightly alkaline pH (6-7.5). Tolerates poor or calcareous soils, but drainage is essential.
• Watering : Needs regular watering in the first few years and during dry periods, but once established, tolerates drought well. Avoid soggy soils.
• Pollination : Flowers attract numerous pollinators, especially butterflies, contributing to the biodiversity of the garden.

Care and resistance

• Hardiness : It is resistant to temperatures down to -20°C (zones 5-9), making it suitable for temperate climates, including Romania. Young branches may be affected by late frosts, but the plant regenerates quickly.
• Fertilization : Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g. 10-10-10) in early spring to stimulate growth and flowering. Avoid excess nitrogen, which favors foliage over flowers.
• Pruning : Prune severely in February-March , reducing branches to 30-50 cm from the ground, to stimulate abundant flowering and maintain a compact shape. Remove faded flowers during the summer to prolong flowering.
• Pests and diseases : May be affected by mites, aphids or powdery mildew in humid conditions. Good ventilation and avoiding wetting the leaves will prevent problems.
• Invasiveness : In some regions, Buddleja davidii can become invasive due to wind-borne seeds. Removing spent flowers reduces this risk.
• Fauna : It is a magnet for butterflies, bees and moths, making it an essential plant for gardens that support biodiversity.

Use

Buddleja davidii 'Ile de France' is ideal for mixed borders , informal hedges or as a solitary plant in cottage, wild or modern gardens. The purple panicles combine beautifully with plants such as lavender, sage or roses. It can be grown in large containers on terraces, but requires regular pruning. It is perfect for landscapes that want to attract pollinators and provide summer color.

Origin

Buddleja davidii is native to China , where it grows in rocky areas and on river banks. The cultivar 'Ile de France' was selected in Europe, probably in France, for its deep purple flowers and long panicles. It is one of the most prized varieties due to its vigor and spectacular flowering.