Sanguisorba officinalis
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Tried and True Recommended by 1 Professional
Common Name: greater burnet
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Family: Rosaceae
Zone: 4 to 8
Native Range: Western Europe, Mongolia, Japan, China, North America
Height: 2.5 to 3 feet
Spread: 2 to 3 feet
Bloom Time: May to June
Bloom Color: Purple, Red
Bloom Description: Dark red to black purple
Sun: Full sun
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Low
Flowers: Showy Flowers
Tolerates: Deer
Uses: Culinary Herb, Suitable as Annual, Will Naturalize

Culture

Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun. Freely self-seeds. Prompt removal of spent flowers will prevent unwanted self-seeding.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Great burnet is a clump-forming, rhizomatous perennial which typically grows to 3' tall. Features compound odd-pinnate, medium green, basal leaves (7-25 serrate leaflets each) and small terminal spikes (to 1.5" long) of dark purple flowers in summer. Stems are sometimes tinged with red. Has ornamental value, but is often grown as a culinary herb: leaves (especially younger ones) are excellent in salads and soups.

Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Taller plants may need staking or other support.

Garden Uses

Borders, herb or vegetable gardens.

Similar Plants


Sanguisorba minor
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