Photo: Kor!An (Андрей Корзун), CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Maltese cross: when and how to prune
Silene chalcedonica
Maltese cross is best pruned in March and August.
| Pruning months | March and August |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–August |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees and butterflies |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Maltese cross: when to prune it?
In July–August cut off spent flower heads, and in March cut back the old stems.
Maltese cross: how to prune it?
- Cut spent heads back to just above a side shoot or the leaves below.
- In March cut all old, dead stems down to just above the ground.
- Do not leave seed capsules if you do not want the plant to self-sow.
- For a bouquet, cut stems when the lowest flowers of the head are open.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and August. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Maltese cross flowers in June–August, 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: Maltese cross · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.