Color: Deep purple to near-black flower clusters with orange throats.
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Fragrance: Sweet, honey-like scent.
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Wildlife & Pest Resistance: Attracts butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds; generally deer resistant.
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Planting Zone: Hardy in USDA zones 5–9.
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Sun Preferences: Full sun for best flowering and compact growth.
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Drought Tolerance: Moderate once established; prefers regular watering in hot, dry conditions.
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Planting Instructions (from a 3.5" pot into the ground):
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Plant in spring or early fall when temperatures are mild.
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Select a full-sun site with well-draining soil.
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Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and equal in depth.
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Remove the plant from its pot, gently loosening roots if pot-bound.
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Place the shrub in the hole so the crown is level with the soil surface.
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Backfill with soil, firming gently, and water thoroughly.
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Apply mulch to conserve moisture, keeping it a few inches away from the crown.
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Water regularly during the first growing season to establish strong roots.
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The Black Knight Butterfly Bush is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a bold, pollinator-friendly shrub that delivers months of color, fragrance, and wildlife activity.