Photo: Sydenham Edwards, Public domain · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Chinese delphinium: when and how to prune
Delphinium grandiflorum
Chinese delphinium is best pruned in July and October.
| Pruning months | July and October |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–September |
| 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 |
Chinese delphinium: when to prune it?
In July, after the first flush, cut back for a second flush; in October, remove the dead stems.
Chinese delphinium: how to prune it?
- After the first flush, cut all flowering stems back to just above the leaves at the base.
- Then water and feed a little: a second flush follows in August–September.
- In October, when the plant dies down, cut the stems back to a few centimetres above the ground.
- Wear gloves when pruning, as the plant is toxic.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: July and October. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Chinese delphinium flowers in June–September, 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: After the first flush, do not cut into the rosette of leaves at the base: that is where the new flowering stems come from. Chinese delphinium is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Chinese delphinium · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.