Product description
The compact Buddleja 'Little Ruby', when shaped as an elegant standard tree, becomes an instant focal point in any garden. It boasts a long blooming season that stretches from summer through autumn, during which it is laden with a profusion of conical flower heads in a rich, ruby-red hue. The honey-scented nature of the blooms makes them a magnet for pollinators, ensuring the tree is a hub of activity with visiting butterflies and bees all season long. As a sun-loving plant, its performance is directly linked to its location, so for the most impressive floral display, place it in the sunniest available spot. During the active growth of summer, ensure it receives consistent moisture; however, the most critical factor for its long-term survival is winter care, when you must protect the roots from cold, damp soil by allowing the compost to remain on the dry side.
To elevate your 'Little Ruby' patio tree from a single specimen to a complete display, underplanting it with a well-chosen companion is an excellent strategy. For a classic, bee-friendly combination, consider planting English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia 'Hidcote') at its base; its fragrant, deep purple flower spikes create a rich, jewel-toned harmony with the Buddleja's ruby-red blooms. This ground-level planting not only adds another layer of beauty but also helps to visually anchor the tree in its pot, complementing its graceful, standard form.
Please Note: When purchasing plants, please consider that each live item is unique and may therefore differ from the images shown, which are for illustration purposes only. The plant will be supplied in a growers pot. Depending on season, some plants may be pruned back to encourage growth and deciduous plants may arrive without leaves.
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
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Planting and period of interest times are general guidelines and may vary based on your location and conditions. For best results, consult local gardening resources.
Instructions
Top Tip
Don't be afraid to prune the 'head' of the tree back hard in early spring. This is the secret to a spectacular display of large flower spikes each summer.
How to Water
Water regularly during summer, especially in dry spells. Reduce watering significantly in winter, allowing the soil to stay on the drier side. Prune the entire 'head' or canopy back hard to a short framework in early spring (March). This is the most important task for a good display. A single feed with a high-potash fertiliser (like tomato feed) in mid-summer is sufficient.
How to Plant
Choose a location in full sun with well-drained soil. Dig a hole twice the width of the pot. Add horticultural grit to the bottom of the hole and mix some with the backfill soil. Place the tree in the hole so the top of its rootball is level with the soil surface. Backfill with the soil/grit mix, firm in gently, and water thoroughly.









