Buddleja davidii 'Pink Delight' is a specific cultivar of the butterfly bush (Buddleja davidii) species. It is known for its beautiful pink flowers and is a popular choice among gardeners for its vibrant and eye-catching display.

The 'Pink Delight' cultivar retains the general characteristics of Buddleja davidii. It is a deciduous shrub that typically grows to a height of 5 to 7 feet with an upright, arching habit. The elongated flower spikes of 'Pink Delight' are composed of numerous small, tubular flowers densely packed together.

As the name suggests, the flowers of Buddleja davidii 'Pink Delight' are primarily pink in color. The shade of pink may vary, ranging from pale pink to a deeper or more vibrant pink hue. The flowers are known to be attractive to butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators, making it a valuable addition to gardens that aim to support and sustain wildlife.

In terms of care, 'Pink Delight' requires similar conditions to other butterfly bushes. It prefers full sun, well-drained soil, and regular watering. Pruning the plant in early spring helps maintain its shape and encourages more blooms. Deadheading spent flowers throughout the blooming season can promote continuous flowering.

How to care for the Pink Delight Butterfly Bush

Taking care of a Pink Delight butterfly bush involves a few key practices to ensure its healthy growth and abundant flowering. Here are some care tips:

1. Sunlight: Choose a sunny location for your butterfly bush as it thrives in full sun. Ensure it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.

2. Soil: The bush prefers well-draining soil. If the soil in your area is heavy or retains too much moisture, consider improving drainage by mixing native soil with Daddy Pete's Raised Bed Mix. 

3. Watering: While established bi-color butterfly bushes are relatively drought-tolerant, regular watering is important during dry spells or when they are newly planted. Water deeply and thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Water 2-3 times per week during summer. View our watering supplies. 

4. Pruning: Prune in spring, after the new growth emerges. Many people cut their butterfly bush back in autumn, as part of their fall clean up. But particularly in cold climates, this can leave your butterfly bush more susceptible to damage over winter. Do not prune until you see green buds on the stems. Make your cuts just above where big, healthy leaf buds have formed. It can take several weeks into spring for new growth to show up - be patient and resist the urge to cut them back too early. But do prune your butterfly bush. Left unpruned, large butterfly bushes can become “second story” plants: their flowers form way up at the top so you can’t enjoy them unless you have a second story window. The warmer your climate, the more you should cut back your butterfly bush each spring. Even dwarf varieties need pruning – you’ll just be cutting back less than you would on a variety that reaches 8’ tall. View our pruning supplies. 

5. Fertilization: Butterfly bushes generally don't require heavy fertilization. However, applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer like Espoma Organic Plant Tone in early spring can provide the plant with necessary nutrients. Follow the package instructions for the proper application rate.

6. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the bush, leaving some space around the stem to prevent rot. Mulch helps retain moisture, suppresses weed growth, and insulates the roots during temperature fluctuations. View our bulk mulch.

7. Winter Protection: In colder regions, where temperatures drop below freezing, the Pink Delight butterfly bush might require some winter protection. After the first frost, you can cover the base of the plant with a layer of mulch to protect the roots from extreme cold.