Cephalanthus occidentalis is a deciduous shrub or small tree within the Rubiaceae family that is native to eastern and southern North America. C. occidentalis is also known as buttonbush, button-willow, honey-bells, or buck brush, among other names. The flowers form on puffy spheres with small, thin, protruding, tubular blooms. C. occidentalis can grow to about 20 feet tall and equally as wide in warm locations, but most specimens are smaller, reaching about 6 to 12 feet. C. occidentalis has a number of historical medicinal uses, but it is also toxic due to the presence of cephalanthin. It is often planted as an ornamental, to reduce land erosion, and to attract butterflies and other pollinators. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and consistent thorough waterings. It is not a drought tolerant plant. USDA Hardiness Zones 5 to 10.
Cephalanthus occidentalis seeds typically germinate easily without any special methods or pretreatment. Sow seeds across the top of any well-draining soil mix. Keep soil mix damp at all times. Planted seeds can be covered with a humidity bag or dome to retain moisture. Ideal temperatures for germination are around 70ºF. Seeds should begin to germinate within 1 to 4 weeks. Even with optimal conditions, germination may be slow and sporadic.
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