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Buddleja davidi

Empire Blue

B. ‘Empire Blue’ is an old cultivar eclipsed by more recent introduction such as B. ‘Blue Horizon’, another AGM winner with larger panicles of a superior hue. Accordingly B. ‘Empire Blue’ has been entered onto the RHS ‘Sunset List’ for rescission of its AGM.

 

 

History

Buddleja davidii ‘Empire Blue’ is an old cultivar, raised by Karle A. Lucal and introduced by the Good & Reese nursery, Ohio, in 1941 (patented 1942).

 

 

 

  • Flower Colour: Violet blue
  • Habit: Upright
  • Eventual height: 150-200cm (5-6ft) Spread: 100-150cm (3-5ft)
  • Hardiness: Very hardy - 20°C USDA zones 5-9
  • Leaf colour: Medium green
  • Flowering: The flowers are 20-25cm (8-9") in length
  • Fragrance: Sweetly scented and rich in nectar
  • Situation: Prefers a sunny position
  • Wildlife: Good for bees, butterflies and other insects
  • Later in the year some close up images of the flowers and leaves will be added along with a botanical description.

Project Details

FAMILY

Scrophulariaceae

Place of Origin

Central China, west China and Japan

Plant Heritage

Accession Number B007

All details of our collection are held on the main Plant Heritage database including plant name, accession number, date of accession and plant source.

AWARD OF GARDEN MERIT

15 Buddleja were awarded an AGM  at the 2008-10 Wisley Trial.  It was mainly the  Buddleja davidii that were judged but we have many others in our 160+ collection which are worthy winners.

  • Genus Buddleja
  • Species davidii
  • Cultivar 'Empire Blue’
  • Category semi - deciduous Shrub
  • Colours and sizes are approximate and are intended as a guideline, cultivation notes should be followed

Find out more about soil feeding, pruning and pest control.

Cultivation of Plants