Rio Grande Butterflybush

(Buddleja sessiliflora)

Rio Grande Butterflybush (Buddleja sessiliflora)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Buddleja sessiliflora, commonly known as Rio Grande Butterflybush, is an evergreen shrub native to the semi-arid regions, including desert washes, chaparral, and limestone hills in Arizona, Texas, and parts of Mexico. It typically grows 1.5 – 5 meters tall, with a trunk diameter of less than 7 centimeters. The bark is yellow-brown and fissured, adding to its textured appearance. The flowers, which bloom in spring and summer, are yellow and green and have a unique scent that is often described as unpleasant, reminiscent of ammonia but sweeter. Despite the scent, the flowers can attract butterflies and other pollinators.

The Rio Grande Butterflybush is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in challenging environments, making it suitable for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings. It is also used for erosion control due to its sturdy root system. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade and requires medium amounts of water, thriving in soils with medium drainage. While it is not commonly found in nurseries, it can be a unique addition to a garden, especially in regions with similar climates to its native habitat. Care should be taken when planting near natural areas, as it can become invasive outside of its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 3-5 feet
  • Width: 3-5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow, Green
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant

Natural Habitat

Semi-arid regions, desert washes, chaparral, and limestone hills in Arizona, Texas, and parts of Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Rio Grande Butterfly-Bush, Cola De Zorra, Tepozán, Tepozán Verde, Lengua Da Vaca, Butterfly-Bush

Scientific Names: , Buddleja sessiliflora, Buddleja wrightii, Buddleja verticillata, Buddleja pringlei, Buddleja melliodora, Buddleja barbata, Buddleja pseudoverticillata,

GBIF Accepted Name: Buddleja sessiliflora Kunth