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Herbaceous Perennial

Sanguisorba officinalis
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

great burnet

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

Other common names
burnet bloodwort
greater burnet
see moregreater salad burnet
Synonyms
Sanguisorba montana
Poterium officinale
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Red Green
Autumn Red Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Rosaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus

Sanguisorba are rhizomatous herbaceous perennials with attractive, pinnate leaves and branched stems bearing terminal spikes of small fluffy flowers with conspicuous stamens

Name status

Correct

Plant range
North Temperate reg

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in a moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil that does not dry out; best in full sun or partial shade. Usually needs support and the rhizomes can spread and become a nuisance so site with care

Propagation

Propagate by seed in pots in a cold frame in spring or autumn. Propagate by division in spring or autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Prairie planting
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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