Great Burnet
Sanguisorba officinalis
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Description
Great Burnet (Sanguisorba officinalis) is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe, Asia, and North America. It is recognized for its striking, dark red, bottlebrush-like flower spikes that bloom from midsummer to early autumn. Typically reaching heights of 0.6 to 1.2 meters, it thrives in moist, well-drained soils under full sun to partial shade. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, Great Burnet plays a crucial role in attracting beneficial insects such as pollinators and predatory insects, which help manage pest populations naturally. Its deep root system enhances soil structure and prevents erosion, making it an excellent choice for soil stabilization. In food forests, it serves as a herbaceous layer, complementing trees and shrubs. Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine for its astringent properties. Companion plants include yarrow and comfrey, which enhance its growth and ecological benefits.
Growing Details
Great Burnet thrives in moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and loam. It prefers full sun to partial shade. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as compost to improve fertility and drainage. Mulching with straw or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like yarrow and comfrey can enhance its growth. Avoid overwatering, especially in clay soils, to prevent root rot. Harvest leaves in spring and early summ
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Meadow
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Sanguisorba officinalis</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Europe, Asia, and North America
applicable geo region: Temperate regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of July for 90 days
Harvest:
beginning
of September for 60 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
beginning
of March
Transplant:
middle
of May
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(3/5)
edible uses: The young leaves and shoots of Great Burnet are edible and can be consumed raw in salads or cooked as a vegetable. They offer a mild, cucumber-like flavor and are also suitable as a garnish. Harvest leaves in spring and early summer for the best flavor. Ensure to wash thoroughly before use.
Medicinal Rating:
(4/5)
medicinal uses: Great Burnet has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its astringent properties, particularly in treating diarrhea, dysentery, and other gastrointestinal issues. The roots and leaves are used to make infusions or decoctions. Caution is advised as excessive consumption may lead to digestive discomfort.
health concerns: Excessive consumption may lead to digestive discomfort.
other uses: Great Burnet is effective as a ground cover and in ornamental plantings due to its attractive foliage and flowers. It is beneficial for soil stabilization and erosion control, particularly on slopes and riverbanks.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Sanguisorba officinalis
common names: Great Burnet; Burnet Bloodwort; Garden Burn
family: Rosaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Sanguisorba
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.5 m
spacing: 0.5 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 18ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: Medium
root type: Deep
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(5/10)
first harvest: 2 years
life span: 10 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 1.2 m
max width: 0.5 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Great Burnet thrives in moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and loam. It prefers full sun to partial shade. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as compost to improve fertility and drainage. Mulching with straw or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like yarrow and comfrey can enhance its growth. Avoid overwatering, especially in clay soils, to prevent root rot. Harvest leaves in spring and early summ
Potential Disturbances: Great Burnet is generally pest-resistant but may occasionally be affected by aphids or powdery mildew. Introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Plant garlic or chives nearby to deter pests naturally. Neem oil can be used as an organic spray to manage mildew.
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