Photo: Sphl, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Large-flowered barrenwort (Epimedium grandiflorum): when and how to prune
Epimedium grandiflorum
Large-flowered barrenwort (Epimedium grandiflorum) is best pruned in February.
| Pruning months | February |
|---|---|
| Flowering | April–May |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Large-flowered barrenwort (Epimedium grandiflorum): when to prune it?
In late February, before the flower stems appear. Otherwise no pruning is needed.
What else to prune in those months? February
Large-flowered barrenwort (Epimedium grandiflorum): how to prune it?
- Cut all the old, withered leaves off just above the ground.
- Work carefully: the new flower stems and leaves are already waiting at the base and snap easily.
- If you are late and can already see the flower buds, cut leaf by leaf and spare the young shoots.
- There is no need to deadhead.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: February.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- If you only cut back in February, the old stems stand through the winter: insects overwinter in them and birds eat the seeds.
Caution: Do not wait until April: by then it is easy to cut off the young flower stems as well.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Large-flowered barrenwort (Epimedium grandiflorum) · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.