Photo: Rasbak, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Wood spurge: when and how to prune
Euphorbia amygdaloides
Wood spurge is best pruned in June–July.
| Pruning months | June–July |
|---|---|
| Flowering | March–May |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Wood spurge: when to prune it?
In June–July, after flowering, when the flower heads fade.
Wood spurge: how to prune it?
- Cut the flowered stems right down to the base: they die after flowering anyway.
- Leave the young, leafy stems without flowers: they carry next year’s flowers.
- In spring, remove damaged or dead stems.
- Wear gloves and preferably eye protection, then wash your hands and your secateurs.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: June–July.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Wood spurge flowers in March–May, when it attracts bees.
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Caution: Sap sometimes spurts from a fresh cut. Keep your hands away from your eyes and mouth until you have washed them. Wood spurge is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Wood spurge · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.