Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis)

Categories: Bird Habitat | Erosion Control | Floodplain Site | Moist Site | Pollination | Shaded Site | Wetland Site | Wildlife

Buttonbush is a distinctive native shrub prized for its unique globe-shaped flowers, exceptional pollinator value, and ability to thrive in wet landscapes. Growing 6–10 feet tall and 6–8 feet wide, this rounded shrub is an outstanding choice for rain gardens, ponds, streambanks, wetlands, and other consistently moist sites.

In mid- to late summer, Buttonbush produces creamy white, fragrant flower clusters that resemble pincushions or buttons. These unusual blooms are highly attractive to native bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinating insects, making Buttonbush one of the best native shrubs for supporting biodiversity.

Following bloom, the flowers mature into distinctive round seed heads that provide additional seasonal interest and food for birds and wildlife.

Buttonbush naturally occurs in floodplains, marshes, wetlands, and along streams, where its dense root system helps stabilize soils and reduce erosion. While it thrives in wet conditions, it also adapts well to average garden soils once established.

Recognized as the 2015 GreatPlants® Shrub of the Year, Buttonbush combines ornamental beauty with outstanding ecological value.

NATIVE RANGE

Map courtesy of USDA-NRCS Plants Database.