Cephalanthus occidentalis, commonly known as Common Buttonbush, Button Bush or Button Willow, is a deciduous flowering shrub native to the United States and Canada. Native to thirty-four states in America from Alabama to Wisconsin and three provinces of Canada from New Brunswick to Quebec, this species has a distinctly unique look in the wild.
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Common Buttonbush is a deciduous shrub featuring dense, round green foliage and clusters of small white flowers with yellow centers in the summer months. The flowers bloom from June to August and are followed by attractive spherical seed heads containing sweet-tasting fruits that remain on the bush throughout fall and winter months. With the plants being highly attractive to birds, butterflies, and other wildlife, they are a great addition to any wildflower garden.
This species is best-suited for growing in moist soils in full sun to part shade locations. Despite its hardiness and ability to thrive in many different settings, Cephalanthus occidentalis does not tolerate dry soil. With its low maintenance requirements, this species is an easy-to-care-for plant and it can easily be propagated by seeds or cuttings.
Cephalanthus occidentalis Information
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Common Names | Common Button Bush, Button Bush, Button Willow |
| Native to USA | AL, AR, AZ, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV |
| Native to Canada | NB, NS, ON, PE, QC |
| Size | About 10 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cephalanthus occidentalis edible?
Cephalanthus occidentalis is not edible. It belongs to the Rubiaceae family, which generally contains plants with toxic levels of cyanide compounds that make them poisonous if consumed.
Is Cephalanthus occidentalis an invasive species?
Cephalanthus occidentalis is not an invasive species. Native to the US in AL, AR, AZ, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL GA and other states as well as parts of Canada such as NB, NS, ON, PE and QC it is a native wildflower found growing naturally in its’ habitat.