Buddleja (Buddleia) x weyeriana Golden Glow

Buddleja x weyeriana Golden Glow (Buddleia/Butterfly Bush)

An unusual variety with golden yellow flowers, the Buddleja x weyeriana Golden Glow is a standout in any garden. This hybrid was bred in Dorset during the First World War by Major William van de Weyer of Smedmore House, at Corfe Castle. It is a result of crossing Buddleja davidii Magnifica and Buddleja globosa, making it a unique and special addition to any garden.

There are three notable varieties of Buddleja x weyeriana, each with its own distinct features. Buddleja x Sungold has a strong yellow colour with orange centers and pale yellow buds, making it the most popular variety. Buddleja x Moonlight has pale cream flowers with a yellow center and blueish buds, while  Buddleja x Golden Glow combines features from both Sungold and Moonlight with its golden flowers and blueish buds. All three varieties are worthy of a place in any garden.

• Height: Flowering to 4m (easily kept to 2m)
• Spread: Easily maintained to 2m
• Foliage Colour: Rounded grey green
• Flower Colour: Golden yellow with a lilac center round clusters loaded with small flowers
• Soil Type: Well drained, sandy, loam, chalk, clay
• Position: Full Sun - Partial Shade
• Hardiness: Hardy H6 (-15)
• Type: Deciduous Shrub

This brilliant variety is not only attractive to butterflies, but also to other insects. It can reach a height of 4m, but can easily be kept to 2m. Its foliage is a rounded grey green and its flowers are a stunning golden yellow with a lilac center. It thrives in well-drained soil and can be planted in full sun or partial shade. This deciduous shrub is hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as -15 degrees Celsius.

When it comes to growing and caring for Buddleja x weyeriana Golden Glow, pruning is key. It is important to not prune too hard or too early, as this can lead to new shoots growing through the winter and being damaged by frost. The best time to prune is in October/November to loosely shape the shrub, and then again in late March/April for a more thorough pruning. This will not affect flowering and can actually improve it.

Another potential issue with Buddleja is eelworm, which can cause yellow or brown blotches on the leaves and deformed shoots. The best way to treat this is by cutting out affected branches and discarding them away from the garden. Over time, this will help to eliminate the problem.

Buddleja's are a versatile and beneficial addition to any garden. They offer beautiful flowers throughout the summer, are easy to grow, and attract beneficial insects.