Shrubs

Cephalanthus occidentalis 'SMCOSS'

Sugar Shack® buttonbush

Sugar Shack® buttonbush. Photo courtesy of Proven Winners.

Rounded, fragrant white flower heads give this compact buttonbush a distinctive summer display. Red fruit and burgundy autumn foliage extend the interest beyond bloom. Its preference for moist ground makes it a useful shrub for rain gardens and other reliably damp areas.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun to part sun
Mature size: 4–5 ft. tall × 4–5 ft. wide
Water: Moist to wet soil
Hardiness: USDA zones 4–10
Bloom: Creamy white; summer

Sizes & prices

#7sqtFalse Taxus. Proven Winner$54.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

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Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Resistant; not browse-proof.
Wet soil: Suited to wet soils and rain gardens.

Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.

Pollinators & wildlife

Attracts: Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Native range

Native range / parentage: Cultivar of a North American native species. Cultivated selection of a Kentucky-native species; not wild local stock.
Tristate native status: Cultivated selection of a Kentucky-native species; not wild local stock.

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Deciduous; burgundy fall color.
Fruit: Red fruit provides winter interest.

Growing & care

Pruning: Trim in early spring if needed; flowers form on new growth.

Sources & photo credits

Proven Winners

nursery-crop-extension.mgcafe.uky.edu

Photo: Photo courtesy of Proven Winners · Authorized nursery promotional use

Reviewed September 21, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.