About
A clump-forming, deciduous herbaceous perennial and a very distinct species, with dark green glaucous leaves and red stems which produce spikes of sweetly fragranced yellowish-green flowers with white stamens, which emerge from bright yellow buds from summer to autumn.
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
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Prairie planting, Wildflower meadow
Native toItaly
FragranceFlower
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. Cut back stems to ground level late February to March
PropagationPropagate by division in spring or autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free