Buddleia Royal Red

Buddleia davidii Royal Red is a fast-growing, deciduous shrub prized for its long, arching spikes of deep reddish-purple, fragrant flowers that appear from mid-Summer to early Autumn. Its lance-shaped grey-green leaves and nectar-rich blooms make it a magnet for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Ideal for wildlife gardens, mixed borders, or as a summer focal point, it suits cottage, pollinator-friendly, and informal garden styles.

Plant in full sun with free-draining soil. Drought-tolerant once established and benefits from hard pruning in early Spring to encourage compact growth and prolific flowering. Space plants 1.5–2m apart for mature spread.

Mature size: Vigorous and upright, growing to approximately 2–3m tall and 2m wide.

Trimming: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Cut back the previous year’s flowering stems to a low framework (around 30–50 cm above ground level) to encourage vigorous new shoots and optimal flowering. Remove any dead or damaged wood at the same time.

Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flower spikes throughout the season to encourage continuous flowering and reduce self-seeding.

Fertilising: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring to support strong growth and abundant blooms. In poor soils, a light top-up feed after the first flowering flush can help maintain performance.

Watering: Water well during the establishment phase and in prolonged dry periods. Once established, Buddleja ‘Royal Red’ is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering to support flowering.

Pest Control: Generally resistant to pests, though aphids may appear on tender new growth. Treat early with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil if needed.

Disease Management: Ensure good airflow through regular pruning to prevent issues like powdery mildew. Remove any affected leaves promptly and avoid overhead watering to reduce fungal risk.

Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.

For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:

  • Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
  • Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
  • Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options. 

We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.

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