Buddleia davidii cultivars Banned in OR

**<t*@springmeadownursery.com>**

The Oregon Legislature has indeed banned all sales and production of B.
davidii and all of its cultivars, regardless if the cultivar is invasive,
non-invasive or even sterile. I believe the law kicks in January 1, 2009.
The total, out-right ban of B. davidii cultivars surprised the Oregon
Nursery Association who were, at the same time, in good-faith negotiations
with the OR Dept. of Agriculture, and who thought they had a fair, workable
agreement that satisfied the concerns of both the State and
environmentalists. It appears that gardeners and growers do not have any
decent lobbyists.            

As many of you know, we are introducing a new miniature, continuous blooming
- Buddleia called Lo & Behold Blue Chip. It needs to be said that Blue Chip
is not a B. davidii cultivar; rather it's a complex hybrid which has greatly
diminished seed set and viability. 'Blue Chip' was developed by Dr. Dennis
Werner at NC State is NOT invasive. Seed set is so poor it has been
difficult for Dr. Werner to continue the breeding line using it. 

Some GWA members received trial plants of Blue Chip this spring. I encourage
you to check your plant this autumn and note the lack of seed capsules. Its
failure to set seed is very evident especially if you compare it with a
davidii cultivar such as Black Knight, etc.. Dr Werner feels it is an
eco-friendly solution for certain regions of the country, such as Oregon,
where Buddleia davidii has escaped. 

Spring Meadow and a number of our breeders are actively breeding
eco-friendly cultivars and hybrids of various species as a solution to the
invasive issue. It is a positive solution that addresses the issue head on
and allows gardeners continued access to good plants.  We can only hope that
legislators and lobbyists don't ban such plants (guilty by association) just
because they do not understand plant nomenclature and identification, or
don't want to be bothered.      

Graham, you will find that he has two of his new selections in the RHS
trials at Wisley, one of which is Blue Chip and the other is called 'Miss
Ruby' a slightly large hot pink variety. These plants will be under a test
number without their names but you will recognize his plants as they will be
the short ones! They have gotten very favorable reviews thus far. Blue Chip
is quite unique in its size and because it continues to bloom right up until
from without the need to deadhead - (a side-benefit in not setting seed).

Tim Wood - Spring Meadow Nursery, Inc.

"The greatest service which can be rendered any country is to add a useful
plant to its culture" - Thomas Jefferson

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