Sanguisorba

This is a group of hardy perennials and annuals that come from the marshes of northeast North America, Japan and Europe. This group is also referred to as Poterium. There is one variety, S. minor (the Salad Burnet, which is used as a vegetable), that is listed under Poterium sanguisorba; refer to this name for its description. These plants form clumps of medium green, divided leaves with 7 to 17 lance-shaped, serrated leaflets, which are heart-shaped at the base. In late summer, tiny flowers are produced in compact, slightly arching spikes, which resemble bottlebrushes, thus one of the common names Japanese Bottle-Brush Flower. Another common name is the Great Burnet. Sanguisorbas grow from 4 to 5 feet high and spread 2 to 3 feet. S. obtusa is a pretty plant that bears rose-pink flowers. S. canadensis has white flowers and S. officinalis produces brownish-red blooms.

Pot Cultivation

These plants like full sun, but will tolerate partial shade. Their soil should be fertile and moist, but with adequate drainage. They are great plants for waterside planting and for woodland gardens.

Propagation

Seeds may be sown in the fall, or they may be lifted, divided and replanted in the spring, which is the easiest method.

S. canadensis

VARIETIES

• S. obtusa;
• S. canadensis;
• S. officinalis;
• S. minor (also Poterium).