About
Sanguisorba officinalis, the great burnet, is a compact clump of pinnate leaves with rounded or oblong leaflets and maroon flowers in dense, rounded or oval spikes in summer and early autumn. A beautiful and ornamental native border perennial for a moist, sunny or lightly shaded position.
About the genus
Sanguisorba, the burnets, are rhizomatous herbaceous perennials with attractive, pinnate leaves and branched stems bearing terminal spikes of small, fluffy flowers with conspicuous stamens in summer and autumn. Popular and ornamental border plants for moist, sunny positions.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPrairie planting, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens, Cottage and informal garden
Native toNorth Temperate reg
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil that does not dry out; best in full sun or partial shade. Usually needs support. The rhizomes can spread readily and have the potential to become a nuisance, so site with care
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed in pots in a cold frame in spring or autumn. Propagate by division in spring or autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free