Annual Flowers Which Start Purple Then Change to Orange

Bicolor Butterfly Bush

• The butterfly bush (Buddleia davidii) includes a large number of cultivars that produce a wide variety of color in their blooms, but only one claims purple flowers that change to orange. The bicolor butterfly bush (Buddleia. x Weyeriana) boasts lavender flowers that transform to a shade of orange as they age. The orange color may also be described as a sort of butterscotch yellow. The bush itself typically grows to a height of more than six feet.

Features

• The butterfly bush dies back to the ground each winter in colder climates, while in warmer locales where the growth is unabated, it may reach 10 feet in height. The bush grows so quickly and spreads so easily via seed that some gardeners and scientists regard it as invasive and a nuisance. It may be managed by simply digging out unwanted seedlings. The flowers possess an extended blooming period, usually June through October.

Requirements

• Also called a summer lilac, the bicolor butterfly bush offers flower panticles that grow up to 10 inches long and easily attract butterflies, bees and hummingbirds to their fragrant blossoms with a slight scent of honey. Although it is considered a perennial, the bush acts as an annual in colder climates and is considered hardy through U.S. Department of Agriculture Hardiness Zones 5 to 9. It enjoys full sunshine and moist, well-drained soil.

Fun Facts

• The genus Buddleia is named after British botanist and clergyman Rev. Adam Buddle, while the species name davidii honors the European who first brought the plant from its native China, Armand David. Approximately 100 species of butterfly bush exist, including cultivars such as the Black Knight, a bush that boasts deep, dark purple flowers; the Honeycomb, a cultivar with rich, golden blooms; and the Lochlinch, a variety with light lavender flowers and silver leaves.