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Herbaceous Perennial

Sanguisorba canadensis

white burnet

A clump-forming perennial with pinnate green leaves composed of narrowly oblong leaflets. Bottlebrush-like white flower spikes appear in summer and early autumn

Other common names
American burnet
Canadian burnet
Synonyms
Poterium canadense
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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer White Green
Autumn White 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
No
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 America

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 have the potential to 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
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Prairie planting
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Cut flowers
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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