Photo: Kurt Stüber [1], CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Mexican fleabane: when and how to prune
Erigeron karvinskianus
Mexican fleabane is best pruned in April and July.
| Pruning months | April and July |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–October |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees and butterflies |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Mexican fleabane: when to prune it?
Remove old, withered stems in April, and trim lightly in July if it gets untidy.
Mexican fleabane: how to prune it?
- In April, cut out old, withered and frosted stems back to the new growth.
- In summer, cut the clump back by a third if it loses its shape; it flowers again after a few weeks.
- Leave the stems standing in autumn: they protect the plant over winter.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: April and July. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Mexican fleabane flowers in May–October, 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.
Caution: Do not cut back in autumn: that makes it more vulnerable to frost.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Mexican fleabane · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.