Great Burnet Sanguisorba officinalis
ABOUT
Commonly known as great burnet, the plant features pinnate leaves that are arranged in a basal rosette, giving them a feather-like appearance. The foliage is generally medium to dark green. The distinct inflorescences of great burnet are dense, ovoid to cylindrical flower heads that are a deep, reddish-purple hue, sometimes appearing almost wine-colored. These flower spikes bloom atop tall, slender, unbranched stems which rise gracefully above the foliage. The flowers are tiny and packed closely together, creating a striking visual effect. The plant exudes a meadow-like quality and is often found in naturalistic plantings and wildflower gardens. It provides a sense of vertical accent due to its flower spikes, with a texture that is both airy and substantial. Its leaves often turn to attractive shades in the fall, adding seasonal interest. Overall, great burnet has a rustic charm with its unique blossoms and clumping growth habit, making it a delightful addition to a variety of garden settings.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Great Burnet, Official Burnet, Garden Burnet, Bloodwort.
Common names
Poterium officinale, Sanguisorba minor subsp. muricata, Poterium muricatum, Sanguisorba officinalis var. microcephala.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant known commonly as Great Burnet (Sanguisorba officinalis) is not known to be toxic to humans when ingested in typical quantities. It has been historically used in herbal medicine for various purposes, but as with any plant material, consuming it in excessive amounts could lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions in some individuals. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from this plant in humans, and it is generally considered safe for consumption.
To pets
Great Burnet (Sanguisorba officinalis) is also not known to be toxic to pets. There are no common reports of domestic animals being poisoned by consuming this plant. However, as with human ingestion, individual animals may have adverse reactions or allergies to this plant, and owners should always be cautious when introducing new plants to their pets' environment. If a pet does consume Great Burnet and exhibits unusual symptoms, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
2-4 feet (60-120 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Temperate regions
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Sanguisorba officinalis, commonly known as Great Burnet, is a source of nectar and pollen that attract bees and other pollinating insects to the garden.
- Supports Biodiversity: As a native plant in many regions, it contributes to the local ecosystem by supporting a variety of insects and organisms, increasing the area's biodiversity.
- Low Maintenance: Great Burnet is known for its hardiness and ability to thrive in a range of conditions with minimal care once established.
- Drought Tolerance: It is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping or gardens in areas with low water availability.
- Erosion Control: Its root system can help prevent soil erosion, stabilizing the ground in which it grows.
- Ornamental Value: With its distinctive spiky inflorescences and structured plant form, Great Burnet adds visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Culinary Use: The young leaves are sometimes used in salads or as a herb, bringing a cucumber-like flavor to dishes.
- Wildlife Habitat: The plant offers shelter and food for wildlife, including birds that may feed on the seeds.
- Tolerance of Poor Soils: Great Burnet can grow in poor soils where other plants might struggle, making it valuable for challenging garden spots.
- Seasonal Interest: It provides seasonal interest with its long-lasting flowers in the summer and seed heads that persist into the fall and winter.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Sanguisorba officinalis has been traditionally used to reduce inflammation.
- Hemostatic: The plant is known for its ability to help stop bleeding.
- Antioxidant: Contains compounds that may contribute to its antioxidant activity.
- Astringent: Used externally for its astringent properties to tone the skin and mucous membranes.
- Antimicrobial: It may have antibacterial and antiviral effects.
- Gastrointestinal Aid: Has been used to treat diarrhea and dysentery due to its astringent properties.
- Wound Healing: The herb is sometimes applied topically to help heal wounds.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Sanguisorba officinalis, commonly known as Great Burnet, has been used historically as a dye for fabrics, imparting a natural red or pink hue to cloth.
- The plant's tannin-rich roots can be utilized in the tanning industry to help process leather.
- In some cultures, Great Burnet is incorporated into floral arrangements and dried bouquets for its unique spherical flower heads and long-lasting nature.
- The plant is sometimes planted in domestic gardens as an ornamental, attracting beneficial insects with its flowers.
- Great Burnet serves as a food source for certain species of butterflies and moths which feed on its leaves.
- It can also be found in meadow restoration projects, as it is a native perennial that contributes to biodiversity.
- Great Burnet is used in companion planting, believed to enrich the soil and support surrounding plant growth.
- Due to its deep root system, the plant can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and banks.
- The dried seed heads of Great Burnet can add interesting visual texture in craft projects such as in making potpourri.
- In historical cuisine, the young leaves of Sanguisorba officinalis were sometimes used in salads for their cucumber-like flavor.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Great Burnet is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Great Burnet is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Commonly known as Great Burnet, Sanguisorba officinalis has a long history of medicinal use, which lends to its symbolism for healing and health.
- Protection: Great Burnet was often used in folk medicine to ward off plagues and evil, symbolizing protection and safety.
- Matrimony: With its tight clusters of dark red blooms that resemble small, burgundy pincushions, Great Burnet is sometimes associated with love and matrimony, symbolizing unity and togetherness.
- Harmony with Nature: As a perennial herb that fits well in natural plantings and wild gardens, Great Burnet is a symbol of living in harmony with nature.
WaterThe common name for Sanguisorba officinalis is Great Burnet, and it typically requires consistent moisture. Water Great Burnet when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which could mean watering once every week, although the exact frequency depends on the climate and weather conditions. Apply water directly to the base of the plant using a slow and deep watering technique to encourage root growth. During a particularly dry spell, it might be necessary to water more frequently but always avoid waterlogging. A good rule of thumb is to provide Great Burnet with about 1 gallon of water each time, ensuring it reaches the plant's root zone.
LightGreat Burnet thrives in full sun to partial shade, so it prefers a spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. It can tolerate some shade, especially in hotter climates, but too much shade can lead to weak growth and fewer flowers. The optimal location would be an area where it's exposed to morning sunlight and is protected from the intense heat of the afternoon sun during the peak summer months.
TemperatureGreat Burnet is hardy and adapts to a wide range of temperatures, capable of surviving in temperatures as low as -30°F and as high as 85°F. However, the ideal temperature conditions for this plant are between 50°F and 70°F, which encourage healthy growth and blooming. Great Burnet may require protection or mulching in areas with extreme winter temperatures.
PruningPrune Great Burnet to remove spent flowers and encourage new growth, which can also help maintain the plant's shape and size. The best time for pruning is after the plant has finished flowering, usually in late summer or fall. Pruning can be done annually, cutting back the stems to just above ground level, which will also prepare the plant for the next growing season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGreat Burnet (Sanguisorba officinalis) thrives in a moist, well-drained soil mix with high organic matter content. It prefers a soil pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of garden soil, compost, and a portion of sand or perlite to improve drainage is ideal for this perennial herb.
RepottingGreat Burnet should be repotted every few years or as needed when they become root-bound or the soil becomes compacted. Typically, repotting can be done every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide room for growing roots.
Humidity & MistingGreat Burnet prefers moderate to high humidity levels but is quite adaptable to different humidity conditions as long as soil moisture is maintained consistently. It does not require any special humidity adjustments when grown outside its native habitat.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant in moist soil; partial to full sun exposure.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA.
Life cycleSanguisorba officinalis, commonly known as Great Burnet, begins its life cycle as a seed, typically sown in the soil where it undergoes germination when conditions are favorable, primarily in spring. The plant emerges as a seedling and develops a rosette of pinnate basal leaves. As it matures, it forms a deep and extensive root system which helps it survive in various soil conditions and climates. In summer, Great Burnet produces tall, erect flowering stems topped with dense, bottlebrush-like inflorescences that are usually dark red or purple. After pollination by insects, particularly bees, the flowers develop into small, dry single-seeded fruits (achenes) that disperse to form new plants. Over the years, Sanguisorba officinalis grows larger and can spread vegetatively as well, becoming a robust perennial that can persist in the same location for several years.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Sanguisorba officinalis, commonly known as Great Burnet, is most effectively propagated through seed sowing in the spring. After the last frost has passed, seeds can be directly sown into a prepared seedbed in the garden. Surface-sow the seeds to enable light to assist germination and keep the soil moist. Seeds typically require a germination period of around 2 to 4 weeks at a temperature between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit (20-22 degrees Celsius). Once seedlings have established and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into their final growing positions, spaced appropriately to allow for mature growth. It is crucial to maintain consistent soil moisture throughout the growing season, especially while the young plants are establishing themselves.
