Cephalanthus occidentalis 'Magical Moonlight'
Cephalanthus occidentalis 'Magical Moonlight' is a unique selection of buttonbush featuring creamy white spherical flower clusters that appear like glowing ornaments against its lush green foliage in early to midsummer. This native shrub brings architectural interest to moist landscapes while providing valuable habitat and nectar for pollinators.
Height & Spread: 5 - 6 ft x 4 - 5 ft
Bloom Time: Early to midsummer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist to wet rich soil
Watering Needs: Moderate to high; prefers consistently moist conditions
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This cultivar is a selection of Cephalanthus occidentalis, a shrub native to wetlands, stream edges, and moist woodlands throughout much of North America. 'Magical Moonlight' maintains the ecological benefits of the native species while offering improved ornamental qualities.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Attracts a variety of butterflies including Swallowtails and Painted Ladies which visit the rounded flower clusters for nectar.
Bees
- Supports native bees, bumblebees, and honeybees which gather nectar and pollen from the dense clusters of small flowers.
Birds
- Provides seasonal habitat and fall seed sources for songbirds which use the shrub for food and cover.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 4 - 5 ft apart to allow its rounded branching structure and mature form to develop naturally.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for rain gardens, pond edges, wildlife plantings, and moist borders where its unique flowers and native character can be appreciated.
Companion Plants
- Iris versicolor (Blue Flag Iris) - Adds upright foliage and colorful blooms that complement buttonbush in moist garden settings.
- Asclepias incarnata (Swamp Milkweed) - Provides additional pollinator value while thriving in similar wet soil conditions.
- Panicum virgatum (Switchgrass) - Brings vertical structure and seasonal movement around the rounded form of buttonbush.
- Carex stricta (Tussock Sedge) - Creates a naturalistic texture and helps fill moist areas around the shrub.
- Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot) - Adds summer color and attracts additional pollinators in sunny native plantings.