Black Knight Butterfly Bush (Tree Form)

Heavy-Blooming and Dramatic Purple Flowers

The Black Knight Butterfly Bush in Tree Form has some of the most intensely purple and prolific flowers that grow in spikes. This tree has dark green foliage and an arching, spreading habit that makes it perfect for borders, beds, and as a privacy screen.

The name doesn’t disappoint, as this plant is a magnet for butterflies and other pollinators. It emits a strong honey-scented fragrance that they just can’t resist and find the flowers rich in nectar. This plant blooms all summer long, giving you a beautiful display of not only flowers but visiting butterflies.

‘Black Knight’ is a pest-resistant variety that is also deer and rabbit-resistant. Butterfly bushes are known for being very easy to grow, needing very little maintenance. This variety is cold hardy, growing in temperatures as low as Zone 4.

Add this RHS award-winning shrub to your garden and order online today! 

Planting & Care

1. Planting: Plant your butterfly bush in a location that receives at least six hours of bright sunlight and has well-draining soil. Before planting, mix compost into the soil to help improve drainage and quality. While planting, make sure to hold the plant straight as you fill in with soil.

To protect the plant's roots, top off with a layer of mulch, especially if you live in a colder climate.

2. Watering:  Butterfly bush roots can be susceptible to rotting, so avoid overwatering. Water the shrub deeply during long, dry spells.

3. Fertilizing:  If planted in good quality soil, butterfly bushes rarely need fertilizer. For poorer soil, apply a slow-release fertilizer annually in spring.

4. Pruning:  The butterfly bush benefits from frequent deadheading. Remove flowers that have finished blooming to encourage the plant to produce more flowers.

Prune the shrub annually in early spring when the first buds emerge to help maintain shape.