Botanical profile

Cephalanthus occidentalis

Latin name
Cephalanthus occidentalis
Common name
Black wood
Type
Shrub
Family
Rubiaceae

Cephalanthus occidentalis, commonly known as buttonbush or common buttonbush, is a remarkable native shrub, prized for its unique summer blooms and significant ecological value. It forms a dense, rounded, and well-branched habit, making it particularly suitable for naturalistic gardens, riparian strips, and moist soils. Its glossy green deciduous foliage showcases, in early summer, spherical white flowers composed of long, fragrant stamens, offering a very decorative and graphic appearance. These inflorescences are extremely attractive to pollinating insects and butterflies. Very hardy and perfectly adapted to Quebec's conditions, Cephalanthus occidentalis tolerates waterlogged soils and temporary flooding, making it an excellent choice for stabilizing banks while enriching garden biodiversity.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Hardiness zones 3–9
Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Watering
Regular to abundant
Fertilization
Little necessary, compost in spring
Soil type
Moist to wet, tolerant
Minimum temperature
-40°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Summer
Flower color
Creamy white
Fruiting
Small persistent brown capsules
Foliage color
Dark green
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Rounded shrub
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
3–4 m (10–13 ft)
Width
3–4 m (10–13 ft)
Growth rate
Moderate
Pollinators
Attracts or supports pollinating insects

Pollinators

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.