Overview

Sanguisorba tenuifolia 'alba' is a perennial in the genus Poterium, part of the Rosaceae family. It typically grows around 1.2 m tall. Sanguisorba tenuifolia 'alba' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include cut flowers and summer borders. It is native to East Asia.

About

Sanguisorba tenuifolia 'alba' is a member of the Rosaceae, placed under the genus Poterium and commonly called Burnet. It produces white flower heads that appear in summer, providing a clear June to August display. Gardeners choose it for summer structure and cut-flowers rather than for foliage effect. Check supplier details for siting and soil recommendations before planting.

About the genus

Sanguisorba is a genus of flowering plants in the family Rosaceae native to the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. The common name is burnet.

In the garden

Sanguisorba tenuifolia 'alba' belongs to the Rosaceae family and is associated with the genus Poterium; its common name is Burnet. The plant’s flowering season runs from June to August, so its role in the border is primarily to carry summer blooms. When sourcing, read the nursery’s guidance on exposure and soil because requirements can vary between stock and cultivars. Positioning should be decided with its June–August flowering window in mind: place it where summer flowerheads will either contrast with or extend the run of other bloomers. If you plan to use stems for cutting, pick them as flowers open through the season. Routine tasks such as removing spent flowerheads and following the supplier’s instructions on division or renewal will keep a planting vigorous, but timings depend on local conditions. Use Sanguisorba tenuifolia 'alba' where you need defined summer structure or picked stems for arrangements; its clear flowering period makes it straightforward to coordinate with other summer-flowering plants. Note the June–August timing when planning borders so its white flowerheads align with companion choices.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Poterium

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil type

Sandy, Loamy, Clay

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained, Wet

UK hardiness

H7

Plant details

Sanguisorba tenuifolia 'alba' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Perennial

Height

1.2 m

Suggested uses

Cut flowers, Summer borders

Native to

East Asia

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Sanguisorba tenuifolia 'alba'

Pruning

Cut back after flowering to maintain shape

Propagation

Division, Seed

Frequently asked questions