Photo: Jean-Pol GRANDMONT, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
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Pruning guide · Perennial
Burning bush: when and how to prune
Dictamnus albus
Burning bush is best pruned in March and October.
| Pruning months | March and October |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–July |
| 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 |
Burning bush: when to prune it?
It needs hardly any pruning. Cut away the dead stems in October or in March.
Burning bush: how to prune it?
- Leave the star-shaped seed capsules after flowering: they are decorative.
- In October or March cut the dead stems back to just above the ground.
- Work with gloves and long sleeves, preferably on a cloudy day.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and October. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Burning bush flowers in June–July, when it attracts bees.
Caution: Together with sunlight, the sap and oil cause skin burns: wear gloves and prune in cloudy weather. Burning bush is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Burning bush · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.