Photo: Melburnian, CC BY 2.5 · source
Pruning guide · Annual
False heather: when and how to prune
Cuphea hyssopifolia
False heather is best pruned in March–April.
| Pruning months | March–April |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–October |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
False heather: when to prune it?
In spring, in March–April, if you have overwintered it.
False heather: how to prune it?
- Cut the shrub back by a third to keep it compact.
- Remove dead and weak shoots.
- In summer you can lightly shorten protruding shoots.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: March–April.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- False heather flowers in June–October, when it attracts bees.
Caution: Do not prune an old shrub hard into old wood: it will be slow to regrow.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: False heather · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.