Photo: Hans Hillewaert, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Great masterwort: when and how to prune
Astrantia major
Great masterwort is best pruned in March and July.
| Pruning months | March and July |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–August |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Great masterwort: when to prune it?
After the first flush, usually in July, cut the clump back. In March, remove the old, withered leaves.
Great masterwort: how to prune it?
- After the first flush, cut the flower stems and old leaves back to just above the ground.
- Then water and add some compost: within a few weeks fresh leaves and a second flush appear.
- In March, cut away dead leaves and stems, before the new shoots appear.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and July. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Great masterwort 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: Seedlings from cultivars often do not resemble the parent. To keep the colour true, remove spent flowers in good time.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Great masterwort · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.