Cephalanthus occidentalis
 
Common Names: Buttonbush, Honeyballs, Common Buttonbush, River Bush
 
Zones: 5–10
 
A deciduous shrub native to North America, Cephalanthus occidentalis thrives in wetlands, floodplains, and stream margins from Canada to the southern United States. Recognized by its spherical flower clusters and glossy foliage, it provides critical habitat and nectar for pollinators, especially butterflies and native bees. This species is widely used in wetland restoration and wildlife-friendly landscaping.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Multi-stemmed; rounded; fast-growing; forms thickets in moist soils
Height: Typically 6–12 ft (1.8–3.7 m); similar spread
Trunk: Woody stems; reddish-brown; smooth to slightly furrowed
Leaves: Opposite or whorled; ovate to elliptic; 3–8 in. (7–20 cm) long; glossy green
Inflorescence: Dense spherical clusters of white to pale pink flowers; highly fragrant; bloom mid to late summer
Fruit: Hard nutlets in persistent globular heads; brown; wildlife-friendly
Ecology: Native to swamps, marshes, and riparian zones; supports pollinators, birds, and aquatic life
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to part shade
Watering: High; thrives in saturated or seasonally flooded soils
Soil: Silty, loamy, or clay; tolerates poor drainage
Temperature: Tolerates –20 to 95°F (–29 to 35°C); thrives in 65–85°F (18–29°C)
Humidity: High; adapted to humid and wetland zones
Propagation: By seed or softwood cuttings; germinates readily
Tolerance: Flood-tolerant; deer-resistant; stabilizes soil in restoration zones
 
Landscape Use
Best suited for wetland restorations, pond margins, rain gardens, and wildlife corridors. Its unique flower structure and ecological value make it a standout in native plantings. Pairs well with Itea virginica, Pontederia cordata, and Carex stricta in moisture-rich, pollinator-friendly designs.