Salad Burnet Sanguisorba minor
ABOUT
Sanguisorba minor, commonly known as salad burnet, is a perennial herb that possesses a distinctive appearance. It has a rosette of pinnate leaves at the base, which are comprised of small, rounded leaflets that are somewhat reminiscent of a series of tiny green rounded fans. These leaflets are fine-textured, contributing to the plant's overall lacy and delicate appearance. The foliage of salad burnet is known for remaining vibrant and green throughout much of the growing season, offering a continual display of lushness. The leaves exude a subtle, cucumber-like fragrance when bruised or crushed, adding a sensory appeal to its visual charm. As for the flowers of the salad burnet, they present themselves in dense, oval to cylindrical spikes that sit atop slender, wiry stems, rising above the foliage in an unassuming but whimsical manner. These tiny flowers are usually dark red to maroon in color, forming a tight cluster that may give the impression of a small, elongated brush or pompom. The texture and form of salad burnet, along with its soft, green leaves and understated floral spikes, make it an attractive addition to gardens and landscapes where a touch of delicate greenery and subtle blooms are desired. The plant’s non-invasive nature and tidy growth habit further enhance its appeal as a low-maintenance choice for gardeners.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Salad Burnet, Small Burnet, Garden Burnet, Burnet Saxifrage.
Common names
Sanguisorba minor var. lasiocarpa, Poterium sanguisorba, Poterium sanguisorba var. lasiocarpum, Sanguisorba muricata.
ToxicityTo humans
Sanguisorba minor, commonly known as Salad Burnet, is not considered toxic to humans. It is actually used culinarily in some regions for its cucumber-like flavor, particularly in salads and dressings. There are no widely recognised symptoms of poisoning from Salad Burnet, as it is generally regarded as safe for human consumption.
To pets
Salad Burnet is not commonly reported to be toxic to pets such as cats or dogs. It is not listed among the plants that are known to cause adverse effects when ingested by animals, and there are no specific symptoms associated with poisoning from this plant. However, as with any non-traditional food item, individual animals might have unique sensitivities or allergic reactions, and thus it's always wise to introduce any new food items to a pet's diet cautiously and in moderation.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary Use: Small burnet (Sanguisorba minor) is often used as an herb in cooking for its cucumber-like flavor.
- Drought Tolerance: This plant is highly drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
- Attracts Wildlife: Small burnet can attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, enhancing pollination in the garden.
- Low Maintenance: It is generally easy to care for, with minimal requirements for fertilization or pruning.
- Erosion Control: Its dense root system makes it effective for stabilizing soil and preventing erosion.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its delicate flowers and interesting foliage, small burnet adds visual interest to the landscape.
- Culinary Diversity: Leaves can be used fresh in salads, as a garnish, or as part of herbal vinegar and butters.
- Traditional Uses: Historically, it has been used in folk customs and ceremonies, though not medically.
Medical Properties- Astringent: Sanguisorba minor has traditionally been used for its astringent properties, which can help to tighten and tone tissues.
- Anti-inflammatory: It may possess anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Haemostatic: Known for its ability to stop bleeding, it has been used historically to treat minor wounds and cuts.
- Gastrointestinal aid: It is believed to help with various digestive issues like diarrhea and dysentery due to its astringent properties.
- Antioxidant: The plant contains compounds that can act as antioxidants, seeking out and neutralizing free radicals in the body.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Sanguisorba minor, commonly known as Salad Burnet, can be used as a natural green dye for wool and other fabrics, owing to its high chlorophyll content.
- The leaves of Salad Burnet have been historically used to impart a subtle cucumber-like flavor to cool drinks and summer wines.
- In the kitchen, the finely chopped young leaves can be added to butter to create an aromatic and flavorful spread for breads and sandwiches.
- Salad Burnet can be used as a natural preservative in homemade lotions and creams due to its antioxidant properties.
- The plant can serve as a companion plant in gardens, helping to reduce aphid populations and attract beneficial insects due to its slightly bitter taste and attractive flowers.
- The dried leaves of Salad Burnet are often incorporated into potpourri mixes to add a fresh, green scent to home decor.
- Salad Burnet has been used as a flavoring agent in traditional European confectionery, such as candies and pastries, to impart a unique taste.
- The plant is sometimes included in natural pet foods, providing a source of vitamins and a fresh taste appreciated by animals like rabbits and guinea pigs.
- Gardeners may use Salad Burnet as an edging plant along walkways or garden borders, offering both culinary and ornamental value.
- In historical table arrangements, the delicate, fern-like appearance of Salad Burnet made it a popular choice for greenery to accompany feasts and banquets.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Salad burnet is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Salad burnet is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing - Sanguisorba minor, commonly known as Salad Burnet, has been historically used in herbal medicine, symbolizing healing and the treatment of various ailments due to its purported medicinal properties.
- Protection - In some traditions, plants with medicinal qualities are also believed to offer protective qualities, both in a physical and spiritual sense.
- Permanence and Longevity - Salad Burnet is a perennial plant, which often symbolizes enduring life, permanence, and the passage of time without fading away.
- Consistency - Its ability to maintain the green color of its leaves even in drought conditions symbolizes consistency, reliability, and steadfastness.
WaterSalad burnet should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Typically, watering once a week during dry spells with about 1 to 1.5 inches of water will suffice. It's important to avoid overwatering, as the plant prefers well-drained soil and can be sensitive to waterlogging. During the growing season, especially in hot, dry weather, ensure that the plant receives a consistent amount of water to maintain its lush, leafy growth. In cooler weather or when the plant is not actively growing, reduce the frequency of watering to prevent root rot.
LightSalad burnet requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It thrives in a location that receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. An ideal spot would be one that is bright and receives morning sun, which is less intense, while providing some afternoon shade in hotter climates to protect the plant from scorching.
TemperatureSalad burnet can tolerate a range of temperatures and is hardy in zones 4-8. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about -30°F and maximum temperatures as long as they're not consistently above 90°F. Optimal growth occurs in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F, which make it suitable for most temperate climates.
PruningSalad burnet should be pruned to encourage bushier growth and to remove old or dead foliage. It's best to prune in early spring before new growth begins or just after the first flush of leaves has matured. Trimming the plant back by about one-third can stimulate new growth and maintain a denser, more attractive shape. Additionally, regular removal of flower stalks can help focus the plant's energy on producing fresh, tender leaves, which are commonly used in culinary applications.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSalad burnet (Sanguisorba minor) prefers well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH, ideally ranging from 6.5 to 7.5. A soil mix that includes loamy soil, compost, and a small amount of sand can support healthy growth, offering drainage and fertility.
RepottingSalad burnet does not require frequent repotting and can thrive in the same pot for several years. Repotting is generally only necessary if the plant outgrows its container or the soil becomes depleted, which might be every 2-3 years.
Humidity & MistingSalad burnet is adaptable to a wide range of humidity conditions and does not require especially high humidity to grow well. It can thrive in the average outdoor humidity levels found in its native growing regions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, keep soil lightly moist.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleSalad burnet (Sanguisorba minor) starts its life cycle as a seed, which, when conditions are suitable, germinates and develops into a seedling. The seedling grows into a rosette of pinnate leaves at ground level, establishing a strong root system. As the plant matures, it sends up flowering stalks with small, reddish-purple flowers clustered in dense, globular heads that bloom in late spring to early summer. After pollination, typically by insects, the flowers develop into small, dry fruits (achenes) which contain seeds that are dispersed by wind, water, or passing animals, completing the reproductive stage. These seeds may lie dormant until the following spring or germinate immediately, if conditions are appropriate. Throughout its life, salad burnet is a perennial herb, which means it can survive for several years, regrowing each spring from the same rootstock.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Small burnet, or Sanguisorba minor, is commonly propagated by seed. The best time for sowing seeds is in the spring, after the danger of frost has passed. To propagate small burnet from seed, prepare a seedbed with well-drained soil in a sunny location. Sow the seeds thinly, covering them with a light layer of soil—about 1/4 inch (about 6 millimeters)—and keep the soil moist until germination, which usually occurs within two to three weeks. Once the seedlings have developed a few true leaves, they can be thinned or transplanted to their final growing positions, allowing adequate space for mature growth. Seeds can also be started indoors about six to eight weeks before the last expected frost date and then transplanted outside as the weather warms.
