Unpack bare roots or rhizomes on arrival and plant them within a week. Until then, keep them somewhere cool and ensure the roots remain slightly moist, never wet.
Out of season
New
Cephalanthus occidentalis
button bush
Cephalanthus occidentalis, commonly known as button bush, is an open-branched deciduous shrub or small tree with a quietly distinctive presence. Its oval leaves can reach up to 18cm long, creating a generous, slightly tropical effect, while young stems are often attractively flushed with red, adding early-season interest. The real charm of Cephalanthus occidentalis emerges later in the year, when late summer brings curious, perfectly rounded flower heads. Each ball is packed with tiny, creamy-white tubular flowers, their long stamens radiating outwards to create a soft, pincushion-like effect. Lightly scented and undeniably architectural, these blooms hover above the foliage and draw the eye without demanding attention.
Beyond its unusual flowers, Cephalanthus occidentalis is valued for its adaptability and strong garden performance. Button bush thrives in moisture-retentive soils and is particularly well suited to damp borders, rain gardens and waterside planting, coping happily where many shrubs falter. The relaxed branching habit of Cephalanthus occidentalis makes it ideal for informal or wildlife-friendly gardens, where it can be allowed to develop naturally. Pollinators flock to the late-season flowers, extending the garden’s ecological value well into autumn. Whether grown as a specimen shrub or integrated into mixed planting, button bush offers structure, seasonal interest and a touch of botanical curiosity that rewards gardeners looking for something a little different.
Quantity
Plant profile
Plant calendar
Remove the packaging straight away, check the compost and water thoroughly if dry. Check the plant’s hardiness before placing it outdoors. Plant into a border or permanent container within a month, choosing the position recommended for the variety. Keep the top of the root ball level with the surrounding soil, firm gently and water well.
Soak the roots in water for three to six hours immediately before planting. Keep any crown, buds or emerging shoots above the water where possible.
Pot most bare roots into 15–20cm pots filled with peat-free multipurpose compost. Large or depth-sensitive roots, including peonies, are often best planted directly into borders.
Arrange the roots naturally without bending them. Cover the roots completely, positioning the crown and buds at the depth recommended for that particular perennial.
Keep pots in a sheltered outdoor position and water whenever the compost begins to dry. Grow on until roots hold the compost together when lifted from the pot.
Plant into a suitable border or permanent container once well rooted. Add a label and water regularly throughout the first growing season while the perennial establishes.
- Botanical name
- Cephalanthus occidentalis
- Flower colour
- White, cream
- Established height
- 1-2m
- Established spread
- 1-2m
- Growing skill
- Easy to grow
- Habit
-
Clump-forming
Upright - Hardiness
- Fully hardy
- Leaf colour
- Green
- Mouse resistant
- Yes
- Plant size
- 1
- Plant spacing
- 6 plants per m2
- Pollinator friendly
- Yes
- Position
-
Sheltered
Exposed - Rabbit resistant
- Yes
- RHS Award (AGM)
- Yes
- Scented
- Yes
- Soil acidity
- Any
- Soil moisture
- Free draining
- Soil type
-
Clay
Loam
Multipurpose compost - Suitable for
-
Pots
Large containers
Borders
Gravel gardens
Wildlife gardens
Cottage gardens
Low maintenance gardens - Sunlight
-
Full sun
Partial shade
Dappled shade - Toxicity
- No report
- Years to establish
- 1-2 years
Perfect for pots
Fragrant
Thrives in full sun
Perennial
Fully hardy
Packed peat-free
Drought tolerant
Low maintenance
Attracts wildlife
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Our horticulturalists prepare every bulb and plant with the utmost care. From selection to packing, each one receives expert attention before beginning its journey to your garden.
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From cultivation to packaging and delivery, we are always looking for ways to lessen our environmental impact.
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Chosen to thrive
Every bulb and plant is sourced, selected and prepared with an expert eye for their quality and garden performance.
