Guide to growing Burnet - Sanguisorba
Sanguisorba species are hardy perennials that reach from 1.2 to 1.8M in height.
Sanguisorba bloom in the middle of summer and carry brushes of very small red, white or pink flowers atop long stems.
The foliage of Sanguisorba is usually a light green with the leaves being lance shaped.
Some common names for members of the Sanguisorba genus include Burnet, salad burnet and Toper's Plant. The leaves of Sanguisorba can be used in cooking. Latin names include Sanguisorba officinalis, Sanguisorba obtusa and Sanguisorba menziesii.
How to grow Burnet
When growing Sanguisorba members such as Burnet outdoors from seed then sow on the surface either in late autumn or at the start of spring. Burnet likes to grow in a sunny part of the garden, though in hot areas it may be better to grow in a part of the garden that receives a light shade in the afternoon. Ideally the soil that Burnet grows in will be moist, pH6 to 8, and of an ordinary nature.
If starting off indoors it should take the Burnet seeds about 2 months to germinate at 10 to 12 degrees Centigrade. The Burnet seedlings should be allowed to grow for a year then put outdoors in the following springtime.
Caring for Burnet
Once growing it is fairly easy to care for Sanguisorba species such as Burnet and Toper's plant; they like moist soil so keep well watered; supply a stake in windy areas, cut back leaves frequently (this will encourage further growth). In the spring time the Sanguisorba plants should be mulched. If you require more plants then they can be propagated by division in spring or autumn.