Black Knight Butterfly Bush

Buddleia davidii 'Black Knight'

Nature Hills Nursery

Deepest Dark Purple Blooms Attract Butterflies and Hummingbirds All Summer Long
Thrives in Zones 5-9
Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Heat Tolerant
Sweetly Fragrant Flowers
Great Choice for Foundation Planting in Cottage Gardens

$18¹⁵

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Plant Size

Quart Container #3 Container

Product variants

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: Plant in a spot that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun daily. While it can survive in partial shade, you will notice fewer flowers and lanky stems because the plant is "stretching" to find the light.
Soil: This shrub requires excellent drainage and hates having "wet feet," which can lead to root rot. If you have heavy clay, mix in some organic compost or plant it in a slight mound to help gravity pull excess water away from the roots.

Watering Requirements

For the first growing season, provide about one inch of water per week to help the roots dive deep into the soil. Once established, Black Knight is remarkably drought tolerant and only needs supplemental water during extreme dry spells. Inconsistent watering during the heat of summer can lead to smaller flower spikes and wilted foliage, so keep an eye on the soil moisture during July and August.

Pruning Tips

This shrub blooms on "new wood," meaning the flowers grow on the fresh stems produced in the current year. In late winter or very early spring, cut the entire plant back to about 12 inches above the ground. Think of it like a "hard reset" for the plant; this aggressive pruning encourages a flush of vigorous new growth and much larger purple blooms.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring just as new green growth begins to emerge. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer because this encourages tender green growth that can be easily killed by the first frost. A light application of compost around the base each spring is often all this hardy plant needs to thrive.

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Cold hardy, Low Maintenance, Deer-resistant, Flowering, Fragrant, Attracts Butterflies, Attracts Hummingbirds, Attracts pollinators, Heat Tolerant, Drought resistant, Fast-growing
Hardiness Zone	5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b
Sunlight	Full sun
Height	6-8 ft
Width	3-5 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Chalky, Clay, Loamy, Peaty, Sandy
Growth Rate	Fast
Growth Habit	Bushy, Spreading
Blooms In	Fall, Summer
Flower Color	Purple
Foliage Color	Green
Fragrant	Yes
Suitable Space	Outdoors
Botanical Name	Buddleia davidii 'Black Knight'
Species	davidii
Cultivar	Black Knight
Class	Lamiales, Magnoliopsida
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, OR, PR, WA

The Black Knight Butterfly Bush, (Buddleia davidii 'Black Knight'), is more like Prince Charming when it comes to butterflies. Butterflies can't resist the allure and charm of these fragrant and mesmerizing blooms. This plant offers spectacular spikes of flowers that will bring all the butterflies and hummingbirds to your yard. This impressive deciduous beauty will capture your heart and inspire your creativity.

As its name implies, the Butterfly Bush is the butterfly whisperer of the flower world. It entices butterflies to stop by for a sip of its sweet and fragrant nectar. This sweet-scented plant brings the biggest gathering of butterflies in the afternoon when its honey-scented nectar sweetens in the sun. The butterflies will need to make room for hummingbirds who enjoy this sweet treat as well.

From the deep, almost black-purple color of muscadine grapes to the vibrant pop of purple, the Black Knight Butterfly Bush produces some of the most dramatic flowers you'll find! Each with a tiny orange center deep inside the throat of each trumpet that densely clusters along the bottlebrush like spikes of flowerheads. These flowers are sure to add a sense of drama to your summer and into fall when they bloom.

Planting and Application:

Plant one of these as a floral privacy hedge near your pool or reading garden. One of these would steal the show in your butterfly garden. At maturity, these are sizeable shrubs that won't block the view entirely, but still leave a magnificent impression on the landscape! Use as a tall focal point or specimen plant and anchor throughout garden beds, borders and cut flower gardens!

If you're looking for a ravishing show of blooms, butterflies and hummingbirds, this is the plant for you. It's breathtaking when in blooms and won't take all your time when it comes to care. They're perfect for Rock Gardens and pollinator beds or en masse and rows for light and airy screening!

Dramatic Spikes of Rich Dark-Violet Flowers
Light Airy Branching & Gray-Green Foliage
Butterfly & Hummingbird Magnet
Sweetly Scented Fragrance
Great for a Breezy Privacy Screen

#ProPlantTips for Care:

This beauty is easy to grow! All you need to do is find a sunny spot and plant this perennial shrub in well-drained, moderately moist soil. It grows vigorously. It's also pest, deer, and rabbit resistant. It blooms on new growth, so don't forget to prune it to the ground in the early spring before you see new growth.

Full Sun
Moderate Moisture
Well-Drained Soil
Prune to Ground in Spring
Fast Growing

Butterflies galore on a dramatically dark-hued flowering shrub? Black Knight Butterfly Bush has all this and more! Order today at NatureHills.com!

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Growing Zones 5-9

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the mature size and height of Black Knight Butterfly Bush?

Black Knight Butterfly Bush typically reaches 4-6 feet tall and wide at maturity. These are described as "sizeable shrubs" with light, airy branching that won't completely block views. Allow adequate space for their full spread when planting in borders or as specimen plants.

Is Black Knight Butterfly Bush invasive in my area?

Buddleia davidii can be invasive in some regions, particularly the Pacific Northwest and parts of the Northeast. The species readily self-seeds and may escape cultivation into natural areas. Check your local extension office or state invasive species list before planting, and consider sterile cultivars available at naturehills.com if concerns exist in your area.

What are the basic care requirements for Black Knight Butterfly Bush?

Black Knight Butterfly Bush thrives in full sun with well-draining soil and requires minimal maintenance once established. This hardy shrub tolerates drought conditions after its first year and benefits from annual pruning in late winter or early spring. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering from summer through fall.

What type of soil does Black Knight Butterfly Bush need, and does it require good drainage?

Black Knight Butterfly Bush thrives in well-draining soil and is quite adaptable to various soil types. Poor drainage can lead to root rot, so avoid heavy clay or consistently wet areas. Plant in loose, fertile soil amended with compost for best blooming performance.

How often should I water Black Knight Butterfly Bush, and what are signs of overwatering?

Water deeply once weekly during dry spells; Black Knight Butterfly Bush is quite drought tolerant once established. Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves, wilting despite moist soil, and poor flowering. Allow soil to dry between waterings for best blooms that attract butterflies all season long.

When is the best time to plant Black Knight Butterfly Bush—spring, summer, or fall?

Spring planting is ideal for Black Knight Butterfly Bush, giving roots time to establish before summer blooms. Fall planting also works well in milder climates. Plant after your last frost date when soil is workable and temperatures consistently stay above freezing.

How do I prune Black Knight Butterfly Bush, and when should I do it?

Prune Black Knight Butterfly Bush in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut stems back to 12-18 inches from the ground to encourage vigorous blooming. This hard pruning promotes the best flower production on new wood and maintains a manageable size.

Is Black Knight Butterfly Bush deer-resistant?

Black Knight Butterfly Bush is generally deer-resistant due to its strong fragrance and slightly fuzzy foliage that deer typically avoid. However, hungry deer may browse any plant during harsh conditions or food shortages. Plant it in areas where deer pressure is moderate for best results.

How does Black Knight Butterfly Bush ship, and what is the condition upon arrival?

Black Knight Butterfly Bush ships as a dormant bare-root plant or in a container, depending on the season. The shrub arrives healthy and ready to plant, typically measuring 12-18 inches tall upon delivery. Plant immediately after arrival or keep the roots moist if planting must be delayed.

Will Black Knight Butterfly Bush survive winter in zones 5 or 6, and how do I protect it?

Black Knight Butterfly Bush is hardy in zones 5-6 but may experience winter dieback in zone 5. In colder areas, apply 3-4 inches of mulch around the base after the first hard frost. Cut back to 12-18 inches in late winter if stems die back.