Buddleja davidii
Buddleja davidii · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Buddleja davidii, commonly known as the butterfly bush, is a vigorous deciduous shrub celebrated for its fragrant, cone-shaped flower clusters. This ornamental plant is highly effective at attracting pollinators like butterflies and bees to garden landscapes. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the species contains unique chemical compounds such as crocetin and picrocrocin. These specific constituents are often studied for their potential biological properties and chemical significance. Whether used for landscape design or scientific inquiry, this plant remains a fascinating subject of botanical interest.
- Synonyms
- Buddleja Striata · Buddleja Variabilis Var. Magnifica · 17 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Scrophulariaceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Tropical
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Buddleja davidii is a captivating flowering shrub that is recognized globally by several different names. In Italy, it is affectionately known as the Albero delle farfalle, while in Denmark, it goes by the name Almindelig sommerfuglebusk. French speakers frequently refer to this plant as the Arbre à papillons, highlighting its role in attracting pollinators. It is also widely cataloged under the simpler names Buddleia and Buddleia de David. Regardless of the nomenclature used, this plant remains a beloved staple in gardens around the world.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Buddleja davidii is a versatile species that encompasses several distinct botanical variations. Within its taxonomic classification, you will find several recognized synonyms that highlight its diversity. These include the notable varieties var. alba and var. magnifera, which offer unique characteristics to gardeners. Other important forms identified in botanical records are var. nanhoensis and var. superba. Finally, the variety known as var. veitchiana completes this diverse group of related plant identities.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Buddleja davidii is a remarkable specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this expansive group, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. This plant is further organized into the order Lamiales, showcasing its unique evolutionary lineage. It also falls under the family Scrophulariaceae, which defines many of its structural characteristics. Finally, it is identified by its specific genus, Buddleja, which distinguishes it from other flowering species.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus | Buddleja |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Buddleja davidii exhibits a broad geographical range that spans across several diverse regions of the African continent. Its presence is noted in the remote areas of the Middle Atlantic Ocean, including Ascension. Within the mainland, the species thrives throughout South Tropical Africa, with documented sightings in both Zambia and Zimbabwe. The plant also establishes itself within West-Central Tropical Africa, specifically appearing in locations such as Cameroon and Rwanda. This wide distribution highlights the remarkable adaptability of the species across varying African ecosystems.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Buddleja davidii is a versatile shrub that establishes a sturdy, self-supporting structure in any garden landscape. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of 4 meters, providing significant vertical interest. Depending on its specific growing conditions, the height can vary, often starting from a minimum of 1 meter. For many established specimens, the stature tends to settle at a minimum of 1.9165 meters. These varying dimensions allow the species to fit seamlessly into diverse horticultural settings.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Buddleja davidii possesses a diverse chemical profile characterized by the presence of several significant bioactive compounds. Research into the plant's flavanone constituents has confirmed that it contains both acacetin and acacetin-7-O-beta-D-glucoside. Furthermore, the species is a source of apigenin 7-O-beta-D-glucoside, which contributes to its complex chemical makeup. Beyond these flavanones, studies on flower development have identified the presence of important apocarotenoids such as crocetin and picrocrocin. Together, these varied phytochemicals highlight the rich metabolic complexity found within this plant species.