Photo: Carl Wycoff from Nevada, USA, CC BY 2.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Blue plantain lily (Hosta ventricosa): when and how to prune
Hosta ventricosa
Blue plantain lily (Hosta ventricosa) is best pruned in September and November.
| Pruning months | September and November |
|---|---|
| Flowering | July–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 |
Blue plantain lily (Hosta ventricosa): when to prune it?
It is not really pruned. In September cut off the spent flower stems, in November the dead leaves.
Blue plantain lily (Hosta ventricosa): how to prune it?
- In September, cut the spent flower stems off at the base.
- In November, clear away the limp, brown leaves: slugs like to overwinter under them.
- In summer, cut damaged leaves off at the base.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: September and November. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Blue plantain lily (Hosta ventricosa) flowers in July–August, when it attracts bees.
Caution: Blue plantain lily (Hosta ventricosa) is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
- Fragrant plantain lily (Hosta plantaginea)
- Narrow-leaved plantain lily (Hosta lancifolia)
- Siebold’s plantain lily (Hosta sieboldiana)
Plant profile: Blue plantain lily (Hosta ventricosa) · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.