Buttonbush

Buttonbush

Cephalanthus occidentalis, or Buttonbush, is a deciduous shrub, native to North America, that thrives in moist to wet soils, including the edges of ponds, lakes, and rain gardens. Reaching 5 to 12 feet tall and wide, this multi-stemmed shrub features glossy green leaves and globular, creamy white flower clusters that bloom in mid to late summer. The showy blooms resemble pincushions or “buttons” and are a magnet for butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, and other pollinators.

After blooming, Buttonbush forms spherical seed heads that persist into fall and winter, offering ornamental texture and a food source for birds. Its open, irregular shape provides excellent cover and nesting opportunities for wildlife, making it a great choice for habitat gardens and naturalized areas.

Buttonbush is highly adaptable and tolerates seasonal flooding, clay soil, and poor drainage. It works beautifully in wetland restoration, rain gardens, and along streambanks where erosion control and native beauty are both needed. Once established, it is low-maintenance, long-lived, and highly beneficial to native ecosystems.

Planting:
It is best planted in spring or fall. Choose a location with consistently moist to wet soil. It tolerates standing water and seasonal flooding.

Watering:
Needs regular water—especially during establishment. Do not allow soil to dry out completely.

Pruning:
Prune in early spring to control size or shape. Can be rejuvenated by cutting to the ground every few years if needed.

Pest & Disease Control:
Few issues; generally pest-free and resistant to deer.

Soil Tips:
Prefers moist, rich soils but tolerates heavy clay or wet sand. Ideal for areas where drainage is poor or periodic flooding occurs.