Photo: Ltshears - Trisha M Shears, CC BY-SA 2.5 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Cupid’s dart: when and how to prune
Catananche caerulea
Cupid’s dart is best pruned in July–August and October.
| Pruning months | July–August and October |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–September |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees and butterflies |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Cupid’s dart: when to prune it?
In July–August, remove faded flowers. In October, cut the old stems back to just above the leaf rosette.
Cupid’s dart: how to prune it?
- Cut faded flowers off with their stem, right down to the base.
- At the end of summer, leave a few flowers if you want to collect seed.
- In October, cut back all the old stems; the leaf rosette stays in place.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: July–August and October. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Cupid’s dart flowers in June–September, when it attracts bees and butterflies.
- If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Cupid’s dart · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.