Buddleia 'Black Knight' is a richly hued butterfly bush known for its deep violet to near black flower spikes. It blooms on arching branches and is especially favored by butterflies and hummingbirds for its strong fragrance and abundant nectar.
Height & Spread: 6 - 8 ft x 4 - 6 ft
Bloom Time: Midsummer to early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained, sandy or loamy soils
Watering Needs: Low; tolerates dry conditions
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This cultivar is derived from Buddleia davidii, native to Asia. It is not native to North America but is widely used in butterfly gardens and pollinator landscapes.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Attracts Monarchs, Red Admirals, and Black Swallowtails with its intensely fragrant, nectar rich flowers.
Bees
- Draws in honeybees, bumblebees, and solitary bees during its peak summer bloom.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 4 - 6 ft apart to allow for full mature spread and pollinator access.
Landscape Placement
- Use in butterfly gardens, foundation plantings, or back borders where its dark flower color offers striking contrast.
Companion Plants
- Gaillardia x grandiflora (Blanket Flower) - Adds orange and red vibrance to pollinator beds alongside Buddleia.
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam' - Offers soft yellow flower clouds for long lasting color contrast.
- Liatris spicata (Blazing Star) - Provides vertical spikes that echo the form of Buddleia flowers.
- Agastache 'Blue Fortune' - Adds upright blue blooms that complement the dark tones of 'Black Knight.'
- Verbena bonariensis - Creates a light floating effect with long stemmed purple blooms above the foliage.