Rubiaceae
button bush
Cephalanthus occidentalis
Synonyms
Cephalanthus occidentalis var. californicus
Cephalanthus occidentalis var. pubescens
Plant Type
Shrub (less than 10 ft)
Life Cycle
Perennial
Typical Size
6-12 ft. tall
Tolerant of
Occasional Flooding
Inolerant of
Dry Soil
Propagation
By seed, By cutting
Wildlife Benefits
Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects, Nectar source for hummingbirds, Fruit/seeds for birds
Leaves
Pairs of 3. Leaves are 8 inches long with smooth margins. Glossy and dark green.
Flowers
Small white flowers on a spherical clustered head. Blooms can be fragrant and long lasting.
Fruit
Showy capsules mature to redish brown containing 2 netlets.
Bark
Greyish peeling bark

USDA Hardiness Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Light Exposure
Part Sun/Shade, Full Shade
Soil Moisture
Moist
Soil Drainage
Poorly Drained
Soil pH
Neutral (6.0-8.0)
Native in South Carolina?
Yes
Plant Native Habitat
OBL wetland indicator status. Found in streambanks, wetlands, and woodlands.
Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)
Secure (G5)
Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)
Not Listed
Distribution Notes
Common throughout South Carolina.