Photo: Carl Axel Magnus Lindman, Public domain · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Hemp agrimony: when and how to prune
Eupatorium cannabinum
Hemp agrimony is best pruned in March, May and September.
| Pruning months | March, May and September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | July–September |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees and butterflies |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Hemp agrimony: when to prune it?
Cut the dead stems down in March, just before new growth starts. In September, remove the faded clusters if you do not want seedlings; in late May you can shorten the stems for a lower plant.
Hemp agrimony: how to prune it?
- In March, cut all old stems down to about 10 cm above the ground.
- Leave the stems standing all winter: insects shelter in them and they look lovely with frost.
- In late May you can cut the stems back by a third: the plant stays lower, branches more and flowers a little later.
- In September, cut off the faded flower clusters before the fluffy seed appears.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 3 pruning periods a year: March, May and September. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Hemp agrimony flowers in July–September, when it attracts bees and butterflies.
- If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Caution: Do not throw the clippings into a field with grazing animals or near hay: even dried plant parts are poisonous.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Hemp agrimony · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.