Photo: User:Stan Shebs, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Dwarf shrub
Lavender-cotton: when and how to prune
Santolina chamaecyparissus
Lavender-cotton is best pruned in April and August–September.
| Pruning months | April and August–September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | July–August |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Lavender-cotton: when to prune it?
After flowering (August–September) and in April.
What else to prune in those months? April · August · September
Lavender-cotton: how to prune it?
- After flowering, cut off the spent flower stalks and lightly reshape the plant.
- In April you can cut it back hard to 10–15 cm: it regrows from old wood better than lavender and stays compact that way.
- Clip a low hedge every year, so it stays dense right to the base.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: April and August–September. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Don’t cut more than you need to: what stays standing gives insects and birds food and shelter.
Caution: Don’t prune in late autumn or winter: wait until April for the hard prune, when the worst frosts are over.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Similar to: Difference from English lavender
Plant profile: Lavender-cotton · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.