Photo: Willcook, Public domain · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Eastern bluestar (Amsonia tabernaemontana): when and how to prune
Amsonia tabernaemontana
Eastern bluestar (Amsonia tabernaemontana) is best pruned in March and June.
| Pruning months | March and June |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–June |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Eastern bluestar (Amsonia tabernaemontana): when to prune it?
Cut down the old stems in March, before the new shoots appear. For a more compact plant, you can shorten it by a third in June, after flowering.
Eastern bluestar (Amsonia tabernaemontana): how to prune it?
- Leave the stems standing in autumn for the golden colour.
- In March, cut everything back to 5–10 cm above the ground.
- Cutting back after flowering does not cost you the autumn colour: the plant regrows.
- Wear gloves because of the milky sap.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and June. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Eastern bluestar (Amsonia tabernaemontana) flowers in May–June, when it attracts bees.
- If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
Caution: The white milky sap can irritate the skin: wear gloves and do not rub your eyes. Eastern bluestar (Amsonia tabernaemontana) is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Eastern bluestar (Amsonia tabernaemontana) · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.