Cephalanthus occidentalis, also known as Buttonbush, is a beautiful deciduous shrub or small tree that can reach up to 12 ft in height. This ornamental plant grows well in wet soils and is a favourite of water birds and shorebirds who consume its seeds. The plant is easily grown and thrives in open positions with a moisture retentive or wet, neutral to acid humus-rich soil. The inner bark has been used to treat toothaches. Buttonbush is native to eastern and southern North America and is a member of the coffee family, Rubiaceae. Its common names also include Common Buttonbush, Button-willow and Honey-bells. Buttonbush is often cultivated as a nectar source or "honey plant" for aesthetics in gardens and native plant landscapes, and is also planted on slopes to help control erosion. The town of Buttonwillow, California, was named after this distinctive tree, which serves as a landmark for ancient Yokut Indian meetings. Its unique presence also earned the Buttonwillow Tree a place on the California Historical Landmark list.