A multipurpose debris deflector for a hedge trimmer having a deflector body removably attachable to a hedge trimmer. The deflector is positionable between a first position and second wherein in a first position, the deflector body is operable to receive at least a portion of a cutting assembly of the hedge trimmer within the deflector body, and, in a second position, the deflector body is connectable with the cutting assembly such that cutting blades of the cutting assembly are exposed and the deflector body is operable to deflect debris from a vegetation cutting operation.