Reviewed plant profile
Common Buttonbush
Cephalanthus occidentalis · Rubiaceae
A wetland-edge shrub with spherical flowers that support insects and seeds or fruits used by wildlife.
Bloom and fruit
Bloom: Summer
Fruit/seed: Late summer into fall
Growing conditions
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Water: Moist to wet soil
Zones: Commonly grown in zones 5–11
Native-range check
Broadly native across much of North America
Verify local status and invasive restrictions before planting.
Bird relationships
Frequently asked questions
Is Common Buttonbush native where I live?
Its documented native range is Broadly native across much of North America. Confirm county-level status with USDA PLANTS or a local native plant authority.
What birds can Common Buttonbush support?
The reviewed relationships on this site include american goldfinch, northern cardinal, ruby throated hummingbird; actual use varies by region and season.