Position
- Prefers full sun for best flowering and compact growth
- Ideal for mixed borders, wildlife gardens, low screens, or containers
- Sheltered from cold, drying winds, though generally robust
Hardiness
- Hardy to approximately –15°C (5°F)
- Suits most UK gardens; in the coldest regions, extra mulch in winter offers added protection, especially when young
Soil
- Thrives in well-drained soil; tolerates poor to moderately fertile soils when improved with compost if needed
- Dislikes heavy, waterlogged ground
- Grows well in acid, neutral, or alkaline soils
- Adaptable to most garden pH levels, as long as drainage is good
- Grab a soil test kit and ensure the perfect conditions for growth
Height
- Typically reaches 0.8–1 metre (32–40 inches) tall after 5–10 years
- Compact, rounded shrub—suited for smaller spaces and containers
Seasons of Interest
- Foliage Interest: Neat, grey-green leaves persist from spring to autumn
- Autumn Colour/Variegation: No significant variegation or striking autumn colour
- Flowering: Produces rich, deep-red to ruby-purple flowers from mid-summer to early autumn (July to September), attracting butterflies and other pollinators
- Flowers are highly decorative and fragrant
Additional Notes
- Deadhead regularly to prolong the blooming period
- Prune hard in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage abundant flowers
- Mulch in spring with compost or leaf mould for moisture retention and root health
- Drought-tolerant once established, but benefits from watering during extended dry spells
- Generally low maintenance and resistant to most pests and diseases
- Suitable for containers if watered and fed throughout the growing season
Create a Pollinator Paradise with Buddleja Little Ruby
Discover Buddleja davidii ‘Butterfly Candy Little Ruby’, an irresistible compact butterfly bush that combines vibrant, nectar-rich blooms with a naturally dwarf habit, making it an ideal choice for smaller gardens, patio containers, and wildlife-friendly borders. This beautifully proportioned shrub not only attracts butterflies and bees in abundance but also offers long-lasting summer colour with minimal maintenance.
What makes Butterfly Candy Little Ruby so special in the garden?
Buddleja Little Ruby belongs to the Butterfly Candy series of buddlejas. It reaches approximately 80 cm in height and spread, making it ideal for smaller gardens. Unlike taller traditional buddlejas, this dwarf cultivar packs a punch with dense spikes of deep ruby-red flowers. It stays compact, tidy, and full of life. You’ll find it perfect near pathways or in small border clusters. Its neat shape and manageable size make it practical and impactful in limited space gardens.
How does Little Ruby perform for pollinators?
This butterfly bush bursts into bloom from late summer into early autumn. Each spike is packed with nectar, making it a must-have for bees and butterflies. You’ll see winged visitors alight on its dense spikes, drawn by the delicious scent and vibrant colour.
This compact shrub supports pollinator activity even in small plots. Plant it in groups or alongside other summer bloomers for maximum impact. The floral display encourages repeated visits from beneficial garden insects.
What are the ideal growing conditions for Little Ruby?
Position in full sun with well-drained soil. This buddleja tolerates poor soils and thrives in ground with low fertility. A planting mix based on John Innes No. 3, enriched with compost, suits it well. Ensure the soil drains freely to avoid root rot.
The plant withstands heat and moderate drought once established. It performs well in soil that remains consistently moist but never waterlogged. Proper siting increases bloom and vibrant foliage.
Is Little Ruby suitable for patios and containers?
Absolutely. This dwarf buddleja adapts beautifully to large pots. It suits patios and terraces where space is tight. Use free-draining compost and ensure regular watering to maintain optimal growth. Containers help you move it to capture the best light or protect from drying winds.
In pots, it blooms earlier and stays trimmed naturally. You get a vivid floral feature at table level, perfect beside seating or steps. It’s a bold statement in minimal garden arrangements.
When and how should you prune this dwarf butterfly bush?
Prune in late winter before new growth emerges. Cut the stems back to about 20–30 cm above ground to promote strong new shoots. Light pruning helps maintain a tidy shape and encourages dense branching.
During the summer, remove any dead flower spikes to encourage fresh blooms. This maintenance ensures the year’s growth remains robust and bountiful. It also prevents legginess and helps maintain dense structure.
How long does Little Ruby bloom in the garden?
Bloom spans from midsummer through early autumn. This butterfly bush rewards gardeners with colour when many other shrubs slow down. The dense spikes remain striking for weeks.
With regular deadheading, you extend flowering well into autumn. The bush retains its energy and continues to produce buds, extended colour, and constant pollinator appeal.
How hardy is Little Ruby in the UK setting?
This cultivar is hardy, able to endure winter temperatures down to around −15°C (5°F). Frost may burn back tender shoots, but the root system reliably reshoots in spring. Mulching crowns in winter supports recovery.
For very cold sites, add a layer of mulch or fleece. In milder areas, you enjoy uninterrupted display. Its proven hardiness makes it a dependable perennial in varied UK gardens.
How to combine Butterfly Little Ruby in garden design?
Use this buddleja as a bold contrast to soft foliage. It contrasts beautifully with grey foliage plants, such as lavender or sage. Its low, bushy form also complements ornamental grasses or pale perennials.
In smaller borders, use Little Ruby as a repeating theme. Pair it with other Butterfly Candy series buddlejas to layer colour. The continuous blooms help keep the garden lively through changing seasons.
Tips for long-term health and vigour
Feed lightly with compost in early spring. Mulch annually to enrich soil life and support mycorrhizal fungi. Ensure good air flow among stems to avoid disease. This shrub thrives with minimal care but appreciates routine maintenance.
Inspect for pests occasionally, though serious issues rarely occur. Keep competing weeds away in the base zone. Overall, this butterfly bush rewards gardeners with dependable form and flowers for seasons to come.
From Darren’s Patch
There’s something deeply satisfying about finding a plant that delivers both beauty and practicality—and Buddleja Little Ruby does just that. In my garden, it’s become a go-to for injecting a bold splash of colour right where it’s needed, without ever overwhelming the space. I’ve tucked it into sunny borders and even popped a few in large terracotta pots on the patio, where the ruby-red blooms sit perfectly at eye level. It’s not just about the looks, either—watching butterflies drift in daily is an absolute joy. If you’ve a spot that could use a burst of summer energy, ‘Little Ruby’ won’t disappoint.
Key Points to Remember
- Buddleja Little Ruby is a compact dwarf buddleja, around 80 cm in height; ideal for smaller gardens
- Produces dense spikes of deep pink‑ruby flowers from late summer to autumn
- Excellent choice for butterflies and bees; spikes are packed with nectar
- Thrives in full sun, well-drained soil; tolerates poor soils
- Suits containers as well as borders; a low-maintenance, high-impact plant
- Prune hard in late winter; deadhead spent blooms for extended flowering
- Hardy to around −15 °C (5 °F) in UK; mulch over winter in cooler spots
- Harmonises with grey-leaved or pale plants for dramatic contrast
- Buy from a reputable nursery stock labelled Butterfly Candy Little Ruby
- Feed sparingly in spring; mulch annually and provide airflow between stems
Buddleja Little Ruby flourishes in full sun, in well-drained soil improved as needed with compost, and tolerates acid, neutral, or alkaline pH. Hardy to –15°C (5°F), it will grow 0.8–1 m (32–40 in) tall in 5–10 years. This compact shrub produces vivid red-purple flowers from July to September, with neat foliage and minimal autumn colouring. Easily maintained with spring pruning and mulch, it’s an excellent choice for small gardens, containers, and pollinator-friendly landscapes.
Want to learn about other shrub varieties? Read about Buddleja × weyeriana Sungold here.
For more information on Shrubs for your garden, please click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Buddleja ‘Butterfly Candy Little Ruby’ and why is it so popular?
A: ‘Butterfly Candy Little Ruby’ is a compact cultivar of Buddleja davidii from the Butterfly Candy series, prized for its dense spikes of deep ruby-red flowers that attract bees and butterflies. Reaching around 80cm in height, this low-maintenance shrub is ideal for smaller gardens, containers, or even balcony spaces. Despite its modest size, it delivers a bold impact, perfect for those who want colour and pollinator appeal in small spaces. The rich blooms contrast beautifully with the grey foliage, making it an ornamental standout that’s especially dwarf and compact, yet still exceptional for buddlejas.
Q: How tall does Buddleja ‘Butterfly Candy Little Ruby’ grow?
A: Buddleja ‘Little Ruby’ typically grows to around 80cm in height and spread, making it significantly more compact than traditional varieties. This makes it ideal for smaller gardens, pots, or tight borders where space is limited but impact is still desired. Though dwarf, it packs a punch with its vibrant ruby blooms that appear from summer to autumn. Its petite size does not limit its flower performance—in fact, its dense spikes are just as abundant and nectar-rich as larger buddlejas, drawing in butterflies and bees throughout the season.
Q: What growing conditions does ‘Butterfly Candy Little Ruby’ prefer?
A: This buddleja thrives best in well-drained soil in full sun. Though tolerant of poor soils, enriching the planting area with compost improves vigour and flowering. In containers, use John Innes No. 3 compost with added grit for improved drainage. A sunny position not only boosts blooming but also intensifies the colour and scent of flowers. Shelter from harsh wind is beneficial, especially in exposed plots. Once established, it’s a low-maintenance plant that copes well with dry spells, making it well-suited for a busy garden or a wildlife-friendly space.
Q: When does Buddleja Little Ruby bloom, and how long does the flowering last?
A: Butterfly Candy Little Ruby blooms from late summer into autumn, producing compact, dense spikes of deep ruby flowers. These blooms are packed with nectar, offering vital forage for butterflies and bees when many other plants are fading. Deadheading spent flower spikes will help prolong the display. The shrub is quick to flower in its first year and provides lasting interest well into the cooler months, particularly when planted alongside other late-flowering perennials. Its reliable and extended bloom period makes it a standout in mixed borders and wildlife gardens.
Q: How should I prune Buddleja ‘Little Ruby’ for best results?
A: Prune in late winter or early spring, once frost has passed. Reduce the framework to a low level, typically 20–30 cm above ground, to encourage new flowering growth. This variety blooms on new wood, so pruning ensures a full and floriferous display. Throughout the summer, remove any dead or faded blooms to keep the plant tidy and encourage repeat flowering. Light shaping may also be done after the first flush. Proper pruning also improves airflow around the base, which helps maintain plant health and prevent fungal problems.
Q: How do I feed and care for Buddleja ‘Butterfly Candy Little Ruby’?
A: In early spring, apply a balanced slow-release feed to support strong growth and prolific flowering. Container-grown plants benefit from monthly liquid feeds during the growing season. Mulch around the base with compost to retain moisture and enrich the soil. Regular watering is essential during hot, dry spells, especially in pots. Despite being low-maintenance, this Buddleja appreciates a little attention to keep it flowering vigorously. Keep the foliage tidy by removing any spent growth, and ensure the soil remains well-drained throughout the year.
Q: Is Buddleja ‘Butterfly Candy Little Ruby’ hardy in the UK?
A: Yes, Buddleja Little Ruby is hardy across much of the UK, tolerating winter temperatures down to approximately –15°C. Although the top growth may suffer in harsh conditions, the roots are typically resilient and produce fresh shoots in the spring. Ensure well-drained soil to prevent root rot in cold, wet winters, and mulch annually to protect the crown. In colder regions or exposed sites, young plants may benefit from cloche protection in their first year. Its hardiness and compact habit make it an excellent, trouble-free choice for a UK garden.
Q: What makes the Butterfly Candy series of buddlejas special?
A: The Butterfly Candy series is a modern collection of compact buddlejas, bred for smaller spaces without sacrificing flower performance. Each variety in the series—including ‘Butterfly Candy Little Ruby’—offers unique colours, dense spikes, and exceptional appeal to bees and butterflies. Unlike traditional Buddleja davidii, these cultivars remain compact (around 80 cm) and are better suited to containers, patios, or smaller gardens. They’re also low maintenance, hardy, and bloom profusely from summer to autumn, making them a go-to option for pollinator-friendly, space-efficient planting schemes.
Q: Can Buddleja ‘Little Ruby’ be grown in containers?
A: Absolutely. ‘Little Ruby’ is perfectly suited to container growing thanks to its compact size and dwarf habit. Choose a pot at least 30cm deep with drainage holes and use a John Innes No.3 compost mixed with grit. Raise the container on pot feet to prevent waterlogging and position it in full sun. Regular watering and seasonal feeding will keep your plant thriving. Potted buddlejas often bloom earlier and remain more compact, making them ideal for patios, balconies, and small spaces where garden borders are limited.
Q: Where can I buy Buddleja ‘Butterfly Candy Little Ruby’?
A: You can find Buddleja ‘Butterfly Candy Little Ruby’ at reputable UK garden centres, specialist nurseries, and online retailers. Look for well-labelled stock from trusted suppliers to ensure you’re purchasing the genuine cultivar. Online shops often stock the full Butterfly Candy collection of buddlejas, including ‘Little Ruby’, especially during spring and early summer. Buying from a reliable source ensures strong roots, proper labelling, and high-quality plants ready to thrive in your garden. Many suppliers also provide helpful planting and care advice at the point of sale.