Photo: Salicyna, CC BY-SA 4.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Wolf’s bane: when and how to prune
Aconitum lycoctonum subsp. vulparia
Wolf’s bane is best pruned in March and September.
| Pruning months | March and September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–August |
| 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 |
Wolf’s bane: when to prune it?
After flowering, in September, you can cut back the faded stems. If you leave them, remove them in March, before the new shoots appear.
Wolf’s bane: how to prune it?
- Cut the stems back to just above the leaves at the base, or to ground level in March.
- Always wear gloves and wash your hands and secateurs afterwards.
- Do not leave the prunings where children, pets or grazing animals can reach them.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and September. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Wolf’s bane flowers in June–August, when it attracts bees.
Caution: Never prune with bare hands: the toxin can enter through the skin, especially through small cuts. Wolf’s bane is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Wolf’s bane · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.