Photo: Didier Descouens, CC BY-SA 4.0 · source
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Pruning guide · Perennial
Hybrid cardinal flower (Lobelia × speciosa): when and how to prune
Lobelia × speciosa
Hybrid cardinal flower (Lobelia × speciosa) is best pruned in March.
| Pruning months | March |
|---|---|
| Flowering | July–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 |
Hybrid cardinal flower (Lobelia × speciosa): when to prune it?
In March cut away the old stems. During flowering cut off the faded spikes.
What else to prune in those months? March
Hybrid cardinal flower (Lobelia × speciosa): how to prune it?
- In March, cut all old, dead stems down to just above the ground, without damaging the new rosettes.
- During flowering, cut faded spikes back to just above a side shoot.
- Leave the leaf rosettes in autumn and winter: they protect the plant.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: March.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Hybrid cardinal flower (Lobelia × speciosa) flowers in July–September, when it attracts bees.
- If you only cut back in March, the old stems stand through the winter: insects overwinter in them and birds eat the seeds.
Caution: Wear gloves: the milky sap is poisonous and can irritate the skin.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Hybrid cardinal flower (Lobelia × speciosa) · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.