Photo: Włodzimierz Wysocki, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Leopard’s bane: when and how to prune
Doronicum orientale
Leopard’s bane is best pruned in May–June.
| Pruning months | May–June |
|---|---|
| Flowering | April–May |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Leopard’s bane: when to prune it?
Hardly any pruning is needed. Cut off faded stems in May–June and clear yellowed leaves when the plant dies down.
Leopard’s bane: how to prune it?
- After flowering, cut the flower stems at the base, just above the leaves.
- Leave the leaves while they are green: they feed the rootstock for next year.
- Remove yellow, dried leaves in summer so that slugs and fungi have nowhere to hide.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: May–June.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Leopard’s bane flowers in April–May, 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 the leaves off while they are still green, even if they look a little untidy.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Leopard’s bane · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.