Buddleja globosa aka Orange Ball Tree

Buddleja globosa is a large shrub or small tree. Common names include orange ball tree and orange butterfly bush. It belongs to the figwort family, Scrophulariaceae. Its native range runs through Chile into southern Argentina. There it grows in both dry and moist forests. It may shed its leaves or keep some through winter. Plants grow upright, with an open shape that thickens with age.

Garden plants often reach 10–16 feet (3–5 m) tall. NCSU gives a spread of 8–12 feet (2.4–3.7 m). RHS lists a broader size range for both dimensions. Its upper limit reaches about 26 feet (8 m). The pale gray bark develops cracks as it ages. Gray stems have a roughly four-sided shape and dense hairs. Leaves grow in pairs and have little or no stalk. Their pointed blades range from narrow to oval, with toothed edges. Deep veins mark the dark green, leathery upper surface. Yellowish hairs cover the wrinkled undersides.

Small, scented flowers form orange-yellow balls at the branch tips. Each head measures about 0.07 feet (0.02 m) across. Loose groups of these heads bloom in early summer. Individual flowers are tubular, with four petals joined at their bases. Flowers grow on wood formed during the prior year. Their nectar draws bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects. Tiny, oval, yellow-tan capsules follow in rounded groups in autumn. They hold nearly round seeds that lack wings.

Choose a sheltered site with sun and good drainage. The plant also accepts partial shade. Moist, fertile loam suits it well, though it tolerates drought. It grows in acid, neutral, or alkaline soil. RHS also lists chalk and sandy soils as suitable. NCSU places it in USDA zones 6–9; RHS rates it H5. Prune after bloom to keep its shape without losing flowers. Summer stem cuttings provide a means of propagation.

This shrub suits borders, cottage gardens, and gardens for wildlife. RHS also lists it for coastal planting. Its scented flowers provide both garden interest and insect food. Deer seldom cause damage, and maintenance needs are low. Aphids, capsid bugs, caterpillars, and earwigs may attack it. Other pests include figwort weevils, spider mites, and leaf and bud eelworms. Honey fungus, leaf spot, and viral disease may also occur.