Buddleja 'Lilac Chip'

Buddleja (BUD-lee-uh)

Family: Scrophulariaceae Unknown Herbaceous (1-3 ft)

Buddleja 'Lilac Chip' is a hybrid derived from Buddleja 'Blue Chip' and Buddleja 'Miss Molly' in the plant breeding program of Dr. Dennis Werner of North Carolina State University. It is extremely dwarf compared to standard cultivars, and more compact than 'Blue Chip'. The foliage is dense and full and the unique lilac/lavender-pink flowers are very fragrant. 'Lilac Chip' grows in average, well-drained soils in full sun. It may become weedy with diminished flowering if not grown in full sun. Like all Buddleja , it requires moderate moisture and may suffer from root rot if the soil is consistently wet. When planted in clay soil, the soil should be amended with compost and the base of the plant should be planted slightly above ground level to help water drain away from the plant in heavier rain. It is drought tolerant once established but needs occasional watering, particularly during times of excessive heat or when planted in containers. 'Lilac Chip' may die back to the ground in colder zones and resume growth from the crown the following spring. In regions where top growth survives over winter, pruning to the ground in late winter when new leaves appear at the base will produce more vigorous growth in the spring, give the plant a better shape, and produce more flowers. Although it does produce seed, the seedset is considerably less than with standard cultivars of butterfly bush, which are often considered invasive. This non-invasive variety is approved for sale in Oregon and Washington, More information on Buddleja Lo & Behold® Group .

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 52 attributes.