Photo: Kurt Stüber [1], CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Pineleaf penstemon (Penstemon pinifolius): when and how to prune
Penstemon pinifolius
Pineleaf penstemon (Penstemon pinifolius) is best pruned in April and August.
| Pruning months | April and August |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–August |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Pineleaf penstemon (Penstemon pinifolius): when to prune it?
Lightly in April and after flowering in August.
Pineleaf penstemon (Penstemon pinifolius): how to prune it?
- In April, cut off dead and brown tips back to where the stem is green.
- After flowering, in August, cut faded spikes back to just above the foliage.
- Do not cut into old, bare wood: it regrows badly.
- Trim lightly every year to keep the plant dense and compact.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: April and August. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Pineleaf penstemon (Penstemon pinifolius) flowers in June–August, when it attracts bees.
- 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: Never cut into old, leafless wood: it often does not shoot again.
Nearby: related pruning guides
- Golden-beard penstemon (Penstemon barbatus)
- Hartweg's beardtongue (Penstemon hartwegii)
- Foxglove beardtongue (Penstemon digitalis)
Plant profile: Pineleaf penstemon (Penstemon pinifolius) · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.