Also known as Burnet · 347 saves
Sanguisorba
Sanguisorba, the genus most gardeners know as burnet. We track 9 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 9 most-saved Sanguisorba varieties
3 species of Sanguisorba
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Sanguisorba in Sow
Save the Sanguisorba you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Sanguisorba
Whats common across all Sanguisorba varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 9 most-grown of them.
The Sanguisorba year
- DivideMarch and September100% of varieties
Divide mature clumps every 3-4 years to refresh vigor
- Spring CleanupFebruary and March89% of varieties
Cut back old, dead foliage to the ground before new growth emerges
- DeadheadJune–August44% of varieties
Remove spent flower spikes to maintain a neat appearance
- StakeMay and June33% of varieties
Provide support for tall flower spikes if in a windy location.
Do
- Prune back after flowering to maintain shape
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
- Apply organic compost annually
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
- Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
- Don’t cut back in late fall or winter
What goes wrong with Sanguisorba
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Use insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Powdery Mildew | White powder on leaves | Apply sulfur fungicide or improve air circulation |
| Slugs | Irregular holes in leaves | Use organic slug bait or handpick during damp evenings |
| Powdery mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply fungicide if necessary |
| Powdery mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply organic fungicide |
| Root Rot | Wilting and yellowing leaves | Ensure well-drained soil and avoid overwatering |
| Powdery Mildew | White powder on leaves | Apply neem oil or sulfur-based fungicide |
Making more Sanguisorba
Division
- Dig up mature clump in early spring or fall
- Separate into smaller sections with roots intact
- Plant divisions at same depth and water thoroughly
Seeds
- Sow seeds in early spring in prepared soil
- Cover lightly with soil and keep moist
- Germination occurs in 2–4 weeks
Sanguisorba questions
How many types of Sanguisorba are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 9 distinct Sanguisorba varieties. The most popular — ranked by 347 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Sanguisorba grow in?
Across its varieties, Sanguisorba covers USDA Zones 4–8. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Sanguisorba bloom?
Most Sanguisorba varieties bloom in late summer, mid-summer. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Sanguisorba should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.