Plant Profile: Rotheca myricoides 'Ugandense'

Rotheca myricoides ‘Ugandense’, commonly referred to as the Blue butterfly bush, is an evergreen shrub from the Lamiaceae family that thrives with minimal care. This plant is indigenous to the tropical regions of eastern Africa, particularly Kenya and Uganda. True to its name, it produces striking violet-blue flowers that evoke the image of butterflies in flight. Typically, this slender shrub reaches heights of 6 to 10 feet, although it is not particularly vigorous and often features somewhat sparse green leaves. Its charming light blue to violet-blue, pea-like blooms make it an excellent choice for container gardening, provided that the containers are kept in a protected area during winter. When cultivated in pots, the plant usually grows to about 4 feet tall.

Rotheca myricoides ‘Ugandense’ flourishes best in frost-free environments, as it is prone to freezing in USDA zones 8-9 or when temperatures drop below 25°F. However, even if the above-ground parts freeze, the roots are resilient and can sprout anew in the spring. For those seeking a more compact growth habit, it is advisable to prune the plant back to the ground in early spring.

This shrub thrives in moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. It requires regular watering and can tolerate full sun to partial shade, although it performs optimally in partial shade.

Originally classified as Clerodendrum ugandense, this cultivar was later renamed Clerodendrum myricoides ‘Ugandense’. The current designation, Rotheca myricoides ‘Ugandense’, was established in 1998 following DNA analysis.

In terms of pests and diseases, this plant is generally resilient, with the exception of occasional leaf spot issues. While it is not significantly affected by serious insect or disease problems, it may occasionally attract aphids, mealybugs, scale, spider mites, and whiteflies.