Photo: Bentham-Moxon Trust.; Curtis, William; Curtis's botanical magazine dedications, 1827-1927 : portrait, Public domain · source
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Pruning guide · Perennial
Fortune's saxifrage: when and how to prune
Saxifraga fortunei
Fortune's saxifrage is best pruned in March.
| Pruning months | March |
|---|---|
| Flowering | September–November |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Fortune's saxifrage: when to prune it?
In March, before the new leaves come through.
What else to prune in those months? March
Fortune's saxifrage: how to prune it?
- It is hardly pruned: only cut away dead leaves and spent flower stems.
- Do not cut healthy green foliage; it is the beauty of the plant.
- Use sharp secateurs and clear away the clippings.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: March.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Fortune's saxifrage flowers in September–November, 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.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Fortune's saxifrage · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.