Photo: Ghislain118 http://www.fleurs-des-montagnes.net, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Nettle-leaved mullein: when and how to prune
Verbascum chaixii
Nettle-leaved mullein is best pruned in July–September.
| Pruning months | July–September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–August |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Nettle-leaved mullein: when to prune it?
From July to September, keep cutting off the faded spikes. After the last flowers, in September, cut the stems back to the rosette.
What else to prune in those months? July · August · September
Nettle-leaved mullein: how to prune it?
- Cut a faded spike off just above a side spike or a leaf.
- After the last flowers, cut all flower stems back to the leaf rosette.
- Leave the rosette over winter: next year’s flowers grow from it.
- If you want seedlings, let one or two spikes ripen.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: July–September.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Nettle-leaved mullein 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: Do not cut away the leaf rosette itself: next year’s spikes grow from it.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Nettle-leaved mullein · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.