Japanese burnet Sanguisorba obtusa
ABOUT
Sanguisorba obtusa, commonly known as the Japanese burnet, is a perennial herb with a striking and unique appearance. This plant typically has a foliage base from which numerous leafy stems arise. The leaves are pinnately compound, meaning they are made up of several small leaflets arranged on either side of a common axis, presenting an overall feather-like appearance. The leaflets are typically rounded or oval with a serrated edge, giving them a soft but textured look. The stems of the Japanese burnet are sturdy and upright, bearing the distinctive inflorescences for which this plant is especially valued in ornamental horticulture. The flower heads consist of dense, cylindrical spikes that are composed of numerous small, tightly packed blossoms. These blossoms have an unusual, bottlebrush-like structure, which can range in color from a soft, dusky pink to a more vibrant magenta, often lending a gentle yet vivid splash to garden settings. The flowers of the Japanese burnet have a soft, fluffy appearance, thanks to the numerous stamens that protrude, giving each individual bloom a feathery effect. The floral spikes typically emerge above the foliage, creating a layered appearance that can add depth and interest to garden compositions. Overall, the Japanese burnet is appreciated for its delicate foliage and unique flower spikes, which together create a plant that is both visually soft and architecturally intriguing. It is commonly utilized in garden borders, cottage gardens, and naturalistic plantings where its charming flowers can sway gently in the breeze, adding movement and texture to the landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Japanese Burnet
Common names
Poterium obtusum, Sanguisorba albiflora, Sanguisorba obtusa var. albiflora, Sanguisorba tenuifolia Fisch. ex Link.
ToxicityTo humans
Sanguisorba obtusa, commonly known as the Japanese burnet, is not widely reported to be toxic to humans. There is no significant evidence suggesting that ingestion of this plant by humans can lead to poisoning or cause harmful symptoms. Therefore, no specific symptoms of poisoning or consequences of ingesting the plant are typically expected or documented in the available literature as of my knowledge cutoff date.
To pets
Similar to its toxicity to humans, the Japanese burnet is not widely known to be toxic to pets either. There is no substantial information to suggest that ingestion of Sanguisorba obtusa would cause poisoning in animals such as cats and dogs. Consequently, no specific symptoms of poisoning or consequences of pets ingesting any part of this plant have been commonly reported or documented. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion in significant quantities could potentially cause gastrointestinal upset or other non-specific reactions in some pets, but this does not necessarily mean the plant is toxic.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2-3 feet (60-91 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Sanguisorba obtusa, commonly known as the Japanese burnet, is often used in garden design for its attractive foliage and deep pink, bottlebrush-shaped flowers.
- Habitat for wildlife: The plant provides nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinating insects, supporting biodiversity in the garden.
- Soil stabilization: With its dense root system, the Japanese burnet can help to prevent soil erosion in gardens and landscaped areas.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, this species is quite drought-resistant, making it suitable for xeriscaping or gardens with low water availability.
- Low maintenance: The Japanese burnet is known for being easy to care for, requiring minimal attention once it is well-established in the landscape.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Sanguisorba obtusa has been used in traditional medicine for its potential anti-inflammatory effects.
- Hemostatic: The roots have been used historically to help stop bleeding.
- Antibacterial: The plant may contain compounds with antibacterial properties.
- Gastrointestinal health: It has been used to treat ailments related to the digestive tract.
- Antioxidant: The plant may have antioxidant properties, which help in neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body.
- Wound healing: Traditionally used to promote the healing of cuts and wounds.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Hair dye: Extracts from Sanguisorba obtusa, also known as Japanese burnet, can be used to create natural hair dyes due to their pigmentation properties.
- Floral arrangements: The flowers of the Japanese burnet have a unique, reddish-purple color and can add an exotic touch to both fresh and dried floral bouquets.
- Culinary garnish: The leaves or flowers of the Japanese burnet can be used as an ornamental garnish for a variety of dishes, providing a unique aesthetic to gourmet cuisine.
- Natural fabric dyes: Similar to hair dye, the pigments from the plant can be used to dye fabrics and textiles.
- Erosion control: Due to its root structure, Japanese burnet can be planted on slopes or in areas prone to erosion to help stabilize the soil.
- Companion planting: In gardens, Japanese burnet can be used as companion plants to encourage beneficial insects or to act as a natural pest deterrent.
- Craft material: Dried stems of the plant can be used in crafting, especially for making eco-friendly items like woven baskets or decorative pieces.
- Pollinator attraction: The Japanese burnet can be included in gardens to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies due to its appealing flowers.
- Natural ink: Juice extracted from the plant can potentially be used to create natural inks for art or calligraphy purposes.
- Photography subject: With its distinctive blooms, Japanese burnet can provide an interesting subject for nature and macro photography enthusiasts.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Burnet is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Burnet is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Sanguisorba obtusa, commonly known as Burnet, derives from a name meaning 'blood absorber', indicating its historical use in stopping bleeding and promoting healing.
- Protection: Burnet has been used in traditional medicine as an astringent and was believed to offer protection from wounds and illnesses.
- Endurance: As a hardy perennial, the Burnet symbolizes endurance and the ability to thrive in challenging conditions.
- Domestic Harmony: In some cultures, Burnet was thought to foster peace and prevent discord, representing domestic harmony.
WaterThe Japanese burnet, commonly known as Sanguisorba obtusa, prefers consistent moisture and should be watered on a regular basis, especially during prolonged dry spells. A deep watering once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water, is typically sufficient. It's important to avoid overwatering to prevent root rot, and ensure your plant's soil is well-draining. Water at the base to minimize wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. During the hotter seasons, you may need to increase the frequency, ensuring the soil doesn't dry out completely.
LightJapanese burnet thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal location would provide it with morning sunlight and protection from the intense afternoon heat, especially in hotter climates. If grown in too much shade, the plant may become leggy and produce fewer flowers, so it's essential to strike the right balance for optimal growth.
TemperatureJapanese burnet can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best when daytime temperatures are between 60°F and 75°F. It can withstand minimum temperatures down to about -20°F, making it suitable for hardiness zones 4 through 8. The plant is quite hardy and can survive in higher temperatures as well, but prolonged heat may require additional watering to keep the plant healthy.
PruningPruning Japanese burnet helps to maintain its shape and encourage new growth. Cut back the spent flower stems after blooming to promote a second flush of flowers. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Remove any dead or damaged growth at this time to keep the plant looking tidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Japanese Burnet (Sanguisorba obtusa) should be rich in organic matter, well-draining, and moist. A blend of garden soil, peat, and perlite or sand to improve drainage would be ideal. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingJapanese Burnet (Sanguisorba obtusa) typically does not require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2-3 years, or when it outgrows its current container.
Humidity & MistingJapanese Burnet (Sanguisorba obtusa) prefers moderate humidity but is adaptable to the typical range of household humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Japanese Burnet in bright, indirect light and keep soil consistently moist.
Outdoor
Plant Japanese Burnet in part shade, ensure soil remains moist.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleSanguisorba obtusa, commonly known as Japanese burnet, begins its life cycle with seed germination, which occurs when environmental conditions such as temperature and moisture levels are appropriate. Following germination, it enters a seedling phase, where initial root and shoot systems develop, allowing the plant to start photosynthesizing and growing its characteristic pinnate leaves. As it transitions into its vegetative growth stage, the plant continues to expand its root system and foliage, eventually forming a clumping habit. Japanese burnet then progresses to the reproductive phase, typically in the summer, where it produces tight, bottlebrush-shaped flowers on tall spikes that can attract various pollinators. After pollination, seeds are produced and dispersed, commonly by wind or animals, completing the cycle. During winter, the plant may die back to the ground in colder climates but will re-sprout from its perennial rootstock with the return of warmer spring temperatures.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
The most popular method for propagating the Sanguisorba obtusa, commonly known as the Japanese burnet, is through division. This is typically done in the spring when the plant's growth starts to accelerate. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant, making sure to keep a generous amount of soil around the roots to minimize stress. Once the plant is uprooted, use your hands or a sharp, clean knife to gently separate the plant into smaller sections, each with a portion of the root system and several shoots. These sections can then be replanted immediately into well-prepared soil, maintaining the same depth they were originally growing at. It is important to water the new divisions thoroughly after planting to help establish them in their new locations.
