A Perfect Plant for a Rainy, Wet Day

The very distinctive Buttonbush is an obligate wetland plant, generally growing along the banks of ponds, lakes and streams and in other areas that tend to remain damp. They typically grow to be small to medium shrubs, but under ideal conditions can become small trees. Buttonbush is sometimes grown in ornamental landscapes, but their roots must be in damp soil, so they require a large amount of water.

Beyond its unique beauty, Buttonbush is a very beneficial plant. Once established, they have very strong root systems (stability rating 8). This is an excellent riparian plant to prevent erosion while withstanding significant floods.

There are at least two species of Sphinx Moths that depend on Buttonbush as a larval host. Birds, butterflies and other insects are attracted to the nectar of the flowers. Ducks and various shorebirds eat the Buttonbush seeds.

This set of photographs was taken on the Eagleland Reach of the San Antonio River on Friday, August 30, 2013.