Pruning guide · Ornamental grass
African feather grass: when and how to prune
Cenchrus macrourus
African feather grass is best pruned in March–April.
| Pruning months | March–April |
|---|---|
| Flowering | July–September |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
African feather grass: when to prune it?
Late March to April, before the new leaves come through.
African feather grass: how to prune it?
- Cut the old foliage and spikes back to 10–15 cm above the ground.
- Do this before the new shoots come through, so that you do not damage them.
- Wear gloves: the leaf edges can be sharp.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: March–April.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- If you only cut back in March–April, the old stems stand through the winter: insects overwinter in them and birds eat the seeds.
Caution: It spreads by rhizomes and can run wild. Only plant it where it has room or restrict it with a root barrier or a bottomless bucket, and remove runners outside the clump.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: African feather grass · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.