Photo: Stan Shebs, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Fragrant plantain lily (Hosta plantaginea): when and how to prune
Hosta plantaginea
Fragrant plantain lily (Hosta plantaginea) is best pruned in October–November.
| Pruning months | October–November |
|---|---|
| Flowering | August–September |
| 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 |
Fragrant plantain lily (Hosta plantaginea): when to prune it?
It is not really pruned. In October, cut off the spent flower stems, and in November, clear away the dead leaves.
Fragrant plantain lily (Hosta plantaginea): how to prune it?
- Cut spent flower stems off low down, just above the leaves.
- Remove the yellow, limp leaves after the first frost: this also removes hiding places for slugs.
- In summer, simply cut off chewed or damaged leaves if they bother you.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: October–November.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Fragrant plantain lily (Hosta plantaginea) flowers in August–September, when it attracts bees.
Caution: Fragrant plantain lily (Hosta plantaginea) is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
- Blue plantain lily (Hosta ventricosa)
- Narrow-leaved plantain lily (Hosta lancifolia)
- Siebold’s plantain lily (Hosta sieboldiana)
Plant profile: Fragrant plantain lily (Hosta plantaginea) · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.