The Buddleia davidii is the most commonly-banned invasive type of butterfly bush. It has been declared invasive on most of the east and west coasts of the US, as well as England and New Zealand.

But Buddleja davidii, to give its latin name, which originated in China, is viewed by the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) as an invasive non-native species.

So, if you prune the davidii forms of buddleia in April, they produce perfectly timed fodder. As we toured the nursery, I started to see that buddleias are glamorous shrubs with plenty of uses.

Buddleia davidii, also known as butterfly bush, has been planted widely in wildlife-friendly gardens after being introduced from China. It is highly regarded by some for it's ability to attract ...

Buddleia davidii - or 'butterfly bush' - has been planted widely in UK gardens Credit: iStock - Getty. 7. The plant is viewed by Defra as an invasive non-native species Credit: Supplied.

But Buddleja davidii, to give its latin name, which originated in China, is viewed by the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) as an invasive non-native species.