Photo: Sten Porse, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Goat’s beard: when and how to prune
Aruncus dioicus
Goat’s beard is best pruned in March and July.
| Pruning months | March and July |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–July |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Goat’s beard: when to prune it?
After flowering, in July, cut off the plumes. Remove the old stems and dead leaves in March.
Goat’s beard: how to prune it?
- Cut the spent plumes off just above the leaves.
- Leave the leaves until they turn yellow and die back in autumn.
- In March, cut the old stems off just above the ground, before the new shoots appear.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and July. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Goat’s beard flowers in June–July, 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: If you do not want seedlings, cut the plumes off female plants before the seed ripens.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Goat’s beard · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.