Korean burnet 'Lilac Squirrel' Sanguisorba hakusanensis 'Lilac Squirrel'

Water

The Lilac Squirrel, commonly known as the Korean Burnet, should be watered deeply once a week during active growth, especially in the absence of sufficient rainfall. During the establishment period or particularly dry spells, increase watering to twice a week, ensuring that you provide about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water for each plant, depending on the size and environmental conditions. Ensure that the soil is well-drained and never waterlogged; it is better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering with this species. During the winter months, you can reduce watering as the plant goes dormant and the soil retains moisture longer due to cooler temperatures.

Light

The Lilac Squirrel thrives in full sun to partial shade. Ideally, position it in a location where it can receive at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight per day. The plant is adaptable but will produce the lushest growth and best flowering in a sunny spot that is protected from the intense afternoon heat, which can be provided by light, dappled shade especially in hotter climates.

Temperature

Korean Burnet can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefers conditions between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth. It is cold hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as -20°F, making it suitable for many temperate climates. During heat extremes above 85°F, the plant may require additional watering to remain hydrated and healthy.

Pruning

The Korean Burnet should be pruned to remove spent flower stalks and to shape the plant as desired. Pruning promotes healthy growth and encourages more vigorous flowering. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. It may also be pruned in the summer after the first wave of flowering to freshen the foliage and possibly encourage a second flush of blooms.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for the Korean Burnet 'Lilac Squirrel' is well-draining, loamy soil with plenty of organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.

Repotting

Korean Burnet 'Lilac Squirrel' typically requires repotting every 2 to 3 years, or when it becomes pot-bound and outgrows its current container.

Humidity & Misting

The Korean Burnet 'Lilac Squirrel' prefers average to high humidity levels but is quite adaptable to different humidity conditions found in most garden environments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial sun with moist, fertile soil.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life of Sanguisorba hakusanensis 'Lilac Squirrel', commonly known as Lilac Squirrel Burnet, begins with seed germination in the spring, which requires exposure to moisture and appropriate temperatures. After germination, the seedlings develop roots and shoots, progressing to form a small rosette of pinnate leaves that further establish themselves into a clump-forming plant. As it matures, Lilac Squirrel Burnet enters the vegetative stage when it produces distinct, elongated, fluffy, and bottlebrush-like spikes of purple-pink flowers during the summer months, attracting various pollinators. Following pollination, the flowers develop into small nutlet fruits that contain the seeds for the next generation. These seeds are dispersed by wind or animal activity, thereby completing the reproductive cycle. During the winter, the plant may die back to the ground, entering a period of dormancy until the next spring when the cycle begins anew.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Sanguisorba hakusanensis 'Lilac Squirrel', more commonly known as Korean Burnet, is typically propagated through division, which is a popular method due to its simplicity and effectiveness. The best time for dividing Korean Burnet plants is either in early spring as they are emerging from dormancy or in autumn when the plant has finished flowering and is entering dormancy. When propagating by division, carefully dig up the entire plant, using a spade or garden fork to gently lift the root ball from the ground. Once removed from the soil, use a sharp knife or spade to slice through the root ball, ensuring that each division has a good portion of roots and several shoots or crowns. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were previously growing, spacing them about 12 to 18 inches (about 30 to 45 centimeters) apart to allow enough room for growth. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This method of propagation is quick, maintains the characteristics of the parent plant, and provides new plants that will likely flower in the following season.