July 2025 Plant of the Month: Buttonbush

Meet Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis), a standout native shrub that brings beauty, biodiversity, and bold summer character to the garden. This deciduous shrub truly comes into its own in July, when its whimsical globe-shaped blooms steal the spotlight — just in time for midsummer garden strolls.

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Get to Know Buttonbush

Buttonbush is a deciduous shrub that thrives across a wide range of environments, particularly in USDA Zones 4–9. At maturity, it typically grows 6 to 12 feet tall and wide, although dwarf cultivars like 'Sugar Shack' keep a smaller profile for tighter spaces. It performs best in full sun to part shade and flourishes in moist to wet soils, including clay or areas with occasional flooding — making it a perfect solution for rain gardens or tricky low-lying spots.

Why It Shines in July

July is prime time for Buttonbush, when its unique spherical white flower clusters burst into bloom. These blossoms resemble tiny white fireworks or pincushions, drawing attention from passersby and pollinators alike. The nectar-rich flowers are beloved by butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds, turning your garden into a hub of movement and life. They even release a light, sweet fragrance, adding to their sensory appeal near patios and pathways. 

Even once blooming ends, Buttonbush keeps the show going. Its button-like seed heads persist into late summer and fall, offering textural interest and feeding songbirds well into winter.

Why Chalet Chose Buttonbush for July

We selected Buttonbush as our July Plant of the Month for its all-around performance and ecological value:

• Native and Sustainable: As a North American native, Buttonbush supports local wildlife and aligns with Chalet’s commitment to eco-friendly landscaping. 
• Thrives Where Others Don’t: Buttonbush excels in wet spots, rain gardens, and near ponds, filling a crucial niche in areas where many shrubs falter. 
• Low-Maintenance Charm: Once established, it’s a reliable, long-lived shrub that needs minimal upkeep. Whether your garden is naturalistic or curated, Buttonbush delivers beauty with ease.

A Great Dwarf Option: 'Sugar Shack'

For smaller gardens or container spaces, we recommend Cephalanthus occidentalis ‘Sugar Shack’ — a dwarf cultivar that matures around 3–4 feet tall and wide. It blooms earlier than the species and features ornamental red seed headslater in the season. Unlike many moisture-loving plants, 'Sugar Shack' is also adaptable to average garden conditions, making it a versatile addition to sunny borders or mixed native plantings.

Garden Inspiration

Buttonbush is a natural fit for pollinator gardens and pairs beautifully with fellow native superstars like Monarda, Echinacea, and Asclepias. Use it as a seasonal focal point, a background shrub in native groupings, or an eye-catching accent near water features.

Looking for a plant that pollinators and people will love? Buttonbush brings charm, ecological value, and long-lasting interest — all in one package. Add this July firework to your landscape and enjoy the motion, fragrance, and beauty it brings all summer long.

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