Overview
Sanguisorba tenuifolia var. alba is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Sanguisorba, part of the Rosaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1.5-2.5 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Sanguisorba tenuifolia var. alba grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include architectural, city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden and prairie planting. It is native to Asia.
About
Sanguisorba tenuifolia var. alba is a robust perennial that can reach heights of up to 1.8 meters. It features clusters of dark green, feathery leaves arranged in rosettes. In late summer and early autumn, this plant produces nodding, white, catkin-like flowers atop tall, branching stems.
About the genus
Sanguisorba consists of herbaceous perennials that grow from rhizomes. They feature pinnate foliage and have branched stems topped with terminal spikes that hold clusters of small, fluffy flowers, prominently displaying their stamens.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Sanguisorba
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Clay, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Sanguisorba tenuifolia var. alba size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Prairie planting
- Native to
- Asia
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Sanguisorba tenuifolia var. alba
- Cultivation
- Grow in any moderately fertile soil that does not dry out. May require support, see staking (perennials)
- Pruning
- No pruning required
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame in spring, or by division in spring or autumn
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to slugs causing damage to young leaves
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Sanguisorba tenuifolia var. alba?
Grow in any moderately fertile soil that does not dry out. May require support, see staking (perennials).
Where is the best place to plant Sanguisorba tenuifolia var. alba?
Sanguisorba tenuifolia var. alba prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Sanguisorba tenuifolia var. alba need?
Sanguisorba tenuifolia var. alba is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam, clay and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Sanguisorba tenuifolia var. alba?
No pruning required.
How big does Sanguisorba tenuifolia var. alba grow?
Sanguisorba tenuifolia var. alba reaches a height of 1.5-2.5 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Sanguisorba tenuifolia var. alba hardy in the UK?
Sanguisorba tenuifolia var. alba has a UK hardiness rating of H7.
How do I propagate Sanguisorba tenuifolia var. alba?
Propagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame in spring, or by division in spring or autumn.