Buddleja Midnight: The Nighttime Beauty

Are you looking for a plant that blooms all summer long and has a unique color? Look no further than Buddleja Midnight! This beautiful shrub is known for its dark purple flowers that bloom in the late afternoon and evening. In this blog post, we'll explore everything you need to know about this stunning plant.

What is Buddleja Midnight?

Buddleja Midnight, also known as the Midnight Butterfly Bush, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Buddlejaceae family. It is native to China and produces long spikes of fragrant, dark purple flowers that attract butterflies and other pollinators. The plant can grow up to 8 feet tall and 10 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for borders, hedges, or as a specimen plant.

How to Grow Buddleja Midnight

Buddleja Midnight is a hardy plant that is easy to grow, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Here are some tips on how to grow this beautiful shrub:

Location:

Buddleja Midnight prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.

Soil:

The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, add some organic matter such as compost or peat moss to improve drainage and fertility.

Watering:

Buddleja Midnight prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought once established. Water regularly during the first growing season to help the plant establish a deep root system.

Fertilizing:

Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring, just before new growth appears.

Pruning Buddleja Midnight

Pruning is essential for keeping this plant looking its best and promoting healthy growth. Here are some tips on how to prune Buddleja Midnight:

Timing:

Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.

Technique:

Cut back all stems to approximately 12 inches from the ground. This will encourage new growth and help the plant maintain its shape.

Benefits of Buddleja Midnight

Buddleja Midnight offers several benefits to gardeners and the environment. Here are some of the top benefits:

Attracts Pollinators:

The long spikes of fragrant flowers attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators to your garden.

Low Maintenance:

Once established, Buddleja Midnight requires minimal care and attention.

Long Blooming Period:

This plant blooms from mid-summer through fall, providing color and interest for several months.

Buddleja Midnight Varieties

There are several varieties of Buddleja Midnight available, each with its unique characteristics. Here are some of the most popular varieties:

Buddleja Midnight Cascade

This variety features weeping branches and produces long spikes of dark purple flowers.

Buddleja Midnight Gold

This cultivar has golden yellow leaves that contrast beautifully with the dark purple flowers.

Buddleja Midnight Velvet

This variety features velvety, dark purple flowers that are slightly larger than the standard Buddleja Midnight.

FAQs about Buddleja Midnight

Q1: Is Buddleja Midnight deer resistant?

A: Yes, Buddleja Midnight is deer resistant.

Q2: Can I grow Buddleja Midnight in a container?

A: Yes, Buddleja Midnight can be grown in a large container.

Q3: How often should I fertilize Buddleja Midnight?

A: Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring, just before new growth appears.

Q4: Does Buddleja Midnight require pruning?

A: Yes, pruning is essential for keeping this plant looking its best and promoting healthy growth.

Q5: Can Buddleja Midnight tolerate cold temperatures?

A: Yes, Buddleja Midnight is hardy to USDA zones 5-9 and can tolerate cold temperatures.


Buddleja Midnight is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a low-maintenance plant that blooms all summer long. With its unique dark purple flowers and ability to attract pollinators, it's sure to be a standout in your garden. By following our tips on how to grow and prune this beautiful shrub, you'll have a stunning addition to your landscape in no time.