Released as the inaugural cultivar of the Lo & Behold series developed by Dr. Dennis Werner at NC State University, 'Blue Chip' opened the door for compact, non-invasive butterfly bushes that could fit where their larger relatives could not. Growing just 1 to 2.5 feet tall and wide, it carries the characteristic silver-green foliage and blue panicles of the genus in a form suited to small gardens, container plantings, and front-of-border situations. It blooms in summer and draws butterflies reliably, which remains the central appeal of any Buddleja.

Full sun is essential for 'Blue Chip'; in partial shade it tends to grow somewhat weaker and flower less freely. Well-drained soil of average fertility suits it, with moderate moisture and drought tolerance once established. Clay soil should be amended with compost and the plant set slightly above soil grade to keep water moving away from the roots. In colder zones it may die back to the crown in winter and regrow in spring. Where top growth survives, a prune to the ground in late winter encourages the strongest new growth and the best flowering, since all blooming occurs on new wood. 'Blue Chip' produces few seeds and rarely suckers, earning non-invasive status in Oregon and Washington.