Asian Buttonbush

(Cephalanthus tetrandra)

Asian Buttonbush (Cephalanthus tetrandra)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Cephalanthus tetrandra, commonly known as Asian Buttonbush, is a deciduous shrub native to Southeast Asia and Taiwan. It typically grows to a height and width of 6-12 feet (1.8-3.7 meters), forming a rounded shape. The plant is known for its unique spherical white flowers that bloom in the summer and are highly attractive to pollinators. The glossy green leaves turn yellow in the fall, adding seasonal interest.

Asian Buttonbush is valued for its distinctive flowers and its ability to thrive in wet conditions, making it an excellent choice for rain gardens, wetland restoration, and naturalized areas. It is also used as an ornamental shrub in water gardens and can tolerate periodic flooding. While it prefers full sun, it can also grow in part shade. Buttonbush is adaptable to various soil types, provided they are consistently moist. It is relatively low maintenance but can be susceptible to leaf spot and other fungal diseases in overly humid conditions. Despite its ornamental and ecological benefits, gardeners should be cautious as it can spread aggressively in optimal conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrubs
  • Height: 6-12 feet
  • Width: 6-12 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: High
  • Drainage: Slow, Standing

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Erosion Control, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Wetlands, along streams, and other moist, low-lying areas

Other Names

Common Names: feng xiang shu , 风箱树

Scientific Names: Cephalanthus tetrandra , Cephalanthus naucleoides , Nauclea tetrandra , Cephalanthus occidentalis f. angustifolia , Cephalanthus occidentalis subsp. angustifolius , Cephalanthus occidentalis var. angustifolius , Cephalanthus glabrifolius , Cephalanthus monas , Cephalanthus ratoensis , Gilipus montanus

GBIF Accepted Name: Cephalanthus tetrandra (Roxb.) Ridsdale & Bakh.f.