Sanguisorba albiflora

RHS Plant Profile
white-flowered burnet

Synonyms

Sanguisorba obtusa 'Alba'
Sanguisorba obtusa var. albiflora
Sanguisorba magnifica alba

Herbaceous Perennial

A compact, clump-forming perennial, to 60cm tall, with divided, green leaves. Fluffy, white, bottlebrush flowerheads are borne on slender stems in summer

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Poorly–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Rosaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus
Sanguisorba are rhizomatous herbaceous perennials with attractive, pinnate leaves and branched stems bearing terminal spikes of small fluffy flowers with conspicuous stamens
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Japan

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in a moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil that does not dry out; best in full sun or partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by seed in autumn. Propagate by division in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Cut back in winter

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free