Great burnet (Sanguisorba officinalis)

Great burnet

Also known as: Garden burnet, Official burnet

Great burnet, a perennial herb endemic to the Northern Hemisphere's cooler latitudes, is a vital feeding plant for European large blue butterflies. It is a lovely ornamental plant that works well in herb and meadow gardens. Young leaves are harvested for eating.

Scientific classification

Species

Great burnet (Sanguisorba officinalis)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

2 m

Plant Height

60 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Brown

Fruit Color

Red, Purple, Pink

Flower Color

Green, Red

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Great burnet

Distribution of Great burnet

Distribution Map

Great burnet is primarily native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. It has spread beyond its natural range, flourishing in other areas of similar climate. Introduced to various northern territories, great burnet is also cultivated in various regions where its growth conditions are met, indicating a successful adaptation beyond its indigenous locale.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Meadows, wet grassy places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Characterized by its deep dark red, bottlebrush-shaped flowers on top of wiry stalks, great burnet adds a dash of eccentricity to a late summer garden. Its lush but unruly growth makes it ideal for naturalistic gardens—wildlife, herb, or prairie type—and adds some dynamics in beds and borders. As an additional perk, it is pest, disease, and deer resistant.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Great burnet, including the following common varieties :

Great burnet 'Tanna'Great burnet 'Pink Tanna'Great burnet 'Red Thunder'

Care Guide for Great burnet

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from moist meadows and riverbanks, great burnet thrives in consistently moist environments. It prefers weekly watering, mimicking its natural habitat. Commonly cultivated outdoors, great burnet benefits from seasonal rainfall patterns, aligning its water needs with the growing season for robust growth and vitality.

Fertilize: For optimal growth and flowering of great burnet, apply balanced nutrition fertilizer in early spring and high phosphorus before blooming, with quarterly applications. Adjust amounts for plant size, avoid over-fertilization, especially in winter, incorporate gently into soil, and always water afterward to enhance absorption.

Pruning: Great burnet, characterized by tall, reddish flower spikes and pinnate leaves, thrives with regular pruning in early to late spring. Cut back old stems and remove damaged foliage to prevent legginess and enhance blooming. Use clean, sharp tools to promote healthy regrowth.

Propagation: Great burnet is a hardy perennial valued for its medicinal properties and dark red flower spikes. It prefers well-drained soil and is common in meadows. Effective propagation involves dividing the rootball in early spring or autumn. Ensure regular watering to promote establishment and growth.

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Images of Great burnet

Distribution of Great burnet

Culture

Cultivars

Care Guide for Great burnet

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Common Pests & Diseases