Pruning guide
How to prune candle plant
Best time
Early spring before new growth; tidy up during summer dormancy
How often
Annually in spring; remove dormant segments as needed in summer
Technique
Snap or cut stems at the natural joints between segments. Avoid cutting mid-segment. Wear gloves — the milky sap can irritate skin.
More candle plant care
- How to prune candle plant — the species this cultivar belongs to
- How to prune candle plant — our other guide for the same plant
- Full candle plant care guide
- Common candle plant problems & fixes
- How to propagate candle plant
- When to repot candle plant
Pruning candle plant — FAQ
When should I prune candle plant?
Early spring before new growth; tidy up during summer dormancy. Snap or cut stems at the natural joints between segments. Avoid cutting mid-segment. Wear gloves — the milky sap can irritate skin.
How often does candle plant need pruning?
Annually in spring; remove dormant segments as needed in summer. Candle plant (Senecio articulatus) benefits from light pruning to maintain a tidy shape and prevent legginess. Trim leggy stems back by a third in early spring before active growth resumes. Remove any shrivelled or dormant segments during summer dormancy when the plant naturally drops leaves.
How do you prune candle plant?
Snap or cut stems at the natural joints between segments. Avoid cutting mid-segment. Wear gloves — the milky sap can irritate skin.