About
A tall, herbaceous perennial that can reach 2m. The leaves have oval leaflets with jagged edges and the dark, purplish-red, drumstick flowers are carried on thin, wiry, 'see-through' stems from late summer into autumn. Dead stems can remain a feature in winter.
About the genus
Sanguisorba are rhizomatous herbaceous perennials with attractive, pinnate leaves and branched stems bearing terminal spikes of small fluffy flowers with conspicuous stamens
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPrairie planting, Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil that does not dry out; best in full sun or partial shade
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division in spring or autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free