Sanguisorba
( san - gwis - SORB - uh )
At-A-Glance InformationSanguisorba, commonly known as Burnet, needs light shade in warm climates and regular water for best performance. All Burnet species are characterized by their feathery flower spikes that look like mini Callistemon spikes. Leaves are green and feathery. These plants grow from creeping rhizomes, and can be herbaceous perennials or small shrubs.
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Sanguisorba Species and Varietals
The genus Sanguisorba is a member of the plant family Rosaceae and includes around 40 distinct species. Burnet growing zones vary depending on the species. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Sanguisorba annua (Annual Burnet, Prairie Burnet) These plants are native to western and central Canada and the United States, and grow in various habitats, including grassland, sagebrush, and disturbed soils. They can be annual or biennial, reaching 36 inches tall at maturity when in bloom. Flower inflorescences hold up to 50 flowers held on a tall, naked peduncle. Flowers each have four green sepals and no petals. |
Sanguisorba canadensis (Great Burnet, Canadian Burnet, White Burnet) This species grows well in zones 1-6 and 15-17 and is native to eastern North America. It reaches 3-6 feet tall and 3 feet wide and has bright green foliage. Flowers are white and bloom on spikes in late summer through fall. This species will die to the ground when cool temperatures come around, even in mild climates. Leaves must be cooked to be consumed, as they have a bitter taste. |
Sanguisorba hakusanensis (Japanese Burnet) These plants are native to Japan, and are attractive garden ornamentals, producing long-lasting pink to lavender fuzzy, arching plumes. Foliage is grey-green and heavily scalloped. Individual plants reach up to 30 inches tall when in bloom. This species prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-draining soil. Varieties include 'Lilac Squirrel' (with lilac-colored blooms that appear from July through September). |
Sanguisorba minor (Salad Burnet, Garden Burnet, Little Burnet, Toper's Plant, Pimpernelle, Bunet-Bloodwort) These edible plants are native to Europe, northwestern Africa, southwestern Asia, and Siberia. It has naturalized in North America, New Zealand, and Australia, but plants are not considered to be invasive. Flowers are crimson and held in rounded heads on thin reddish stems. They form large taproots, and are considered to be drought-tolerant. Plants can live up to 20 years. This species is typically grown in wildflower gardens, in containers, kitchen gardens, or as erosion control or post-fire weed control. Grows well in zones 1-10 and 14-21. |
Sanguisorba obtusa (Nanbutouutisou) This species, native to Japan, reaches up to 5 feet tall and 3.3 feet wide when mature. Foliage is grey-green and flowers are bright pink, blooming on wiry stems in summertime. These plants can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions, including full sun or partial shade. They do prefer moist soil. |
Sanguisorba officinalis (Great Burnet) Native to cooler regions in the Northern Hemisphere in Europe, northern Asia, and North America, these plants prefer to grow in grasslands. They are widely used for erosion control and bioremediation, and produce flowers in June through July. Blooms are deep blood-red and stems are green. |
Caring for Sanguisorba
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 590, Sanguisorba
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