Sunny Ray's Nursery, LLC.

Adina rubella                                                                            Chinese Buttonbush               

 Size:  6’ X 6’

 Exposure:  Sun to Shade

 Flower Time:  Late June, sporadic until September

 Ornamental Characteristics:

 This relatively unknown shrub needs to become more frequent in our gardens.  Just as its native cousin (Cephalanthus), it does not leaf out until May, but when these emerge their glossy, deep green appearance makes the delay well worth while.  The leaves retain this gorgeous look all the way until fall turns them a deep maroon.  Aside from the foliage, wonderful ½”, sphere shaped, white clusters of flowers emerge in late June.  While the floral display is not over powering, it is nice.  Some folks relate the shape of the flowers to Sputnik.  Adina’s outer displays are great, but its ability to withstand dry shade and extreme growing conditions make it even more useful.  Don’t be afraid to try this lesser known shrub.  It can be seen in all its glory in Bernheim’s Sun and Shade Trail.