I replaced a large bush that died out from the harsh winter. The nursery (and the tag on the plant) told me that this Buddleia Black Knight species can get 10-12' tall and wide. I do want one that grows bigger as it is replacing one that easily ran 9' high during the summers. She suggested keeping it watered every few days to get it established since it looks like a hot, humid week here (high 80s). Any thoughts or suggestions on this plant? They also had a different variety that stays lower (3-4'). I have a few of these and are actually disappointed that they are not getting higher (planted one 3 years ago and the other one only last year). The type of leaf on this Black Knight looks much like the one that died out, so I'm hoping that it does grow as fast as the nursery indicated.

Thanks for any advice!

Keith

We live in Zone 6 - a microclimate in the middle of zone 5. This past winter the coldest temp. in our neighborhood was only -8F.

I had B. 'Locinch' that stayed at about 4 ft. That one lated for only 5 yrs. in my garden. It was the most fragrant Buddleia I could find. It was not dense either.

So far none of mine have topped 10 ft. tall which may be related more to sun exposure and soil type than anything else.

Butterfly bush should be pruned back to 10" in spring each year (March where I am) since it blooms on new wood. Other than that it's completely maintenance-free.

You don't post your location or zone so be advised Buddleia is listed as invasive in some states due to its prolific reseeding.

Thanks for the replies. Sorry for not listing more info....I am in PA....zone 6.

Keith