The Story
Plant Bio
Sanguisorba officinalis, or Great Burnet, is a clump-forming perennial with pinnately compound leaves and distinctive, bottlebrush-like spikes of tiny, crimson flowers that bloom on tall, wiry stems.
A dwarf, compact cultivar featuring attractive variegated foliage with green leaves edged in creamy white. It produces the species' typical dark red, thimble-like flowers on short stems.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
10 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe and Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or divisions into well-drained soil in early spring
- Water regularly during first growing season to establish roots
- Mist cuttings if propagating via softwood cuttings in summer
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Fertilize with a balanced organic fertilizer in early spring
- Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring or fall
Pro Tip
Plant in partial shade for best foliage and flower display
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Apply organic compost annually
- Divide every few years to rejuvenate
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t cut back in late fall or winter
- Refrain from heavy fertilization in late season
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Little Angel Great Burnet questions
What zones can Little Angel Great Burnet grow in?
Little Angel Great Burnet is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Little Angel Great Burnet deer resistant?
Yes — Little Angel Great Burnet is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Little Angel Great Burnet bloom?
Little Angel Great Burnet typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Little Angel Great Burnet need full sun?
Little Angel Great Burnet does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Sanguisorba to compare
Pink Tanna Sanguisorba
Sanguisorba officinalis 'Pink Tanna'
Japanese Burnet
Sanguisorba obtusa
Great Burnet
Sanguisorba officinalis
Great Burnet 'Blackthorn'
Sanguisorba officinalis 'Blackthorn'
Tanna Great Burnet
Sanguisorba officinalis 'Tanna'
Thin-Leafed Burnet
Sanguisorba tenuifolia
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Little Angel Great Burnet with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.