Buddleia davidii 'Grand Cascade’

Buddleia davidii ‘Grand Cascade’: Waterfall Blooms in Smoky Lavender

Lush, trailing, and impressively floriferous, ‘Grand Cascade’ lives up to its name with enormous, cascading panicles of smoky lilac-purple flowers from midsummer into fall. Each fragrant bloom cluster can reach over 30 cm in length, arching gently from sturdy stems cloaked in silver-green foliage. The overall effect is elegant and wild—perfect for attracting butterflies and hummingbirds in droves. This vigorous butterfly bush is ideal for large borders, naturalized spaces, or anywhere you want bold, pollinator-rich colour with architectural flow.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 180–240 cm (6–8 ft)
• Spread: 180–240 cm (6–8 ft)
• Flower Colour: Smoky lilac-purple
• Flowering Period: Midsummer to fall
• Foliage: Grey-green, lance-shaped; deciduous
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained; tolerates poor or sandy soil

Uses and Benefits: A bold choice for the back of sunny borders, wildlife gardens, or large-scale plantings. ‘Grand Cascade’ delivers both vertical drama and a sweeping, soft form with its oversized flower trusses. Beloved by pollinators, it provides essential late-season nectar while also offering drought tolerance and low maintenance appeal.

Care Instructions: For best flowering and form, prune hard in early spring to encourage strong new growth. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil. Water regularly during the first growing season, then only in extended dry periods. Deadheading can promote continued blooming, though this cultivar is less seedy than older types.

History: ‘Grand Cascade’ is a relatively recent introduction selected for its notably large, pendulous flowers and improved garden performance. It represents the next generation of ornamental Buddleia with better branching, bolder bloom, and reduced self-seeding.

Final Thoughts: With its graceful silhouette and giant, lilac-hued blooms, ‘Grand Cascade’ brings movement, scale, and wildlife interest to the summer garden in unforgettable fashion.