Photo: Forest & Kim Starr, CC BY 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Climber
Cape leadwort: when and how to prune
Plumbago auriculata
Cape leadwort is best pruned in March.
| Pruning months | March |
|---|---|
| Nesting season (15 March–15 August) | Take care in March |
| Flowering | June–October |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for butterflies |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Cape leadwort: when to prune it?
In March, before growth starts. It flowers on young shoots, so hard pruning in spring does not cost you any flowers.
What else to prune in those months? March
Cape leadwort: how to prune it?
- Shorten all of last year’s branches to 2–3 buds, or by half if you want a larger specimen.
- Cut dead, weak or damaged stems right out.
- Thin out overcrowded stems so light and air can get in.
- In summer you can trim long shoots and pinch out the tips for a full, branching plant.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: March.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Pruning in March can fall in the nesting season (15 March–15 August). Check carefully for nesting birds first: disturbing an active nest is against the law.
- Cape leadwort flowers in June–October, when it attracts butterflies.
- Prunings can go on a dead hedge or brash pile in a corner of the garden: shelter for hedgehogs, wrens and insects.
Common mistakes
- Clipping without first checking for nesting birds.
Caution: Do not prune in autumn just before overwintering: there would then be no room for large branches in your cool space.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Cape leadwort · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.