The Story
Plant Bio
Sanguisorba officinalis 'Tanna' produces tall spikes of red flowers, which are attractive to pollinators.
This cultivar is known for its robust growth and exceptional flower display, making it a favorite in garden borders.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
20 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
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
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil; keep moist for germination, which takes 2-3 weeks.
- Plant seedlings in full sun or partial shade, spacing 18-24 inches apart.
- Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry spells.
- Mulch around plants to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize with a balanced organic fertilizer in early spring for vigorous growth.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall to rejuvenate.
Pro Tip
Ensure soil is rich in organic matter and well-draining to promote healthy root development.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Apply organic mulch annually to conserve moisture
- Divide plants in early spring for better growth
- Prune back after flowering to maintain shape
- Use organic fertilizer in spring for lush foliage
Don't
- Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
- Do not neglect pruning after flowering
- Avoid planting in poorly drained soil
- Do not fertilize with high nitrogen fertilizers late in the season
- Refrain from disturbing roots excessively during division
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| 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
Tanna Great Burnet questions
What zones can Tanna Great Burnet grow in?
Tanna 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 Tanna Great Burnet deer resistant?
Yes — Tanna Great Burnet is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Tanna Great Burnet bloom?
Tanna 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 Tanna Great Burnet need full sun?
Tanna 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

Little Angel Great Burnet
Sanguisorba officinalis 'Little Angel'

Great Burnet
Sanguisorba officinalis

Great Burnet 'Blackthorn'
Sanguisorba officinalis 'Blackthorn'

Thin-Leafed Burnet
Sanguisorba tenuifolia
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Tanna 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.





