Buttonbush (Cephalanthus Occidentalis) is a perennial shrub in the Rubiaceae family with easy care difficulty. It requires high watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 5-10. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Cephalanthus occidentalis is a deciduous shrub native to North America, known for its unique spherical flower heads and adaptability to wetland habitats.

Buttonbush

Buttonbush

Cephalanthus Occidentalis

Cephalanthus occidentalis is a deciduous shrub native to North America, known for its unique spherical flower heads and adaptability to wetland habitats.

Quick Facts

Type
shrub
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Easy
Water Needs
High
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
5-10

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:loamy, silty, clay
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:specimen, erosion control, wildlife habitat

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Buttonbush

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Buttonbush
Buttonbush detail

View leaf details, flowers, seeds & more in the app

Taxonomy

Family:Rubiaceae
Genus:Cephalanthus