How to grow Burnet in the UK
Sanguisorba officinalis
Burnet (Sanguisorba officinalis) is a flower that grows well in UK gardens. Trendy meadow perennial. 'Tanna' is a compact reliable cultivar. This guide covers when and how to sow Burnet, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
Type
Flowers
Difficulty
Easy — good for beginners
Position
full sun (6+ hrs direct)
Sow
spring
Harvest
—
When to sow & grow Burnet
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr Plant | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Fertile, moisture-retentive but free-draining soil
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Sun or part shade depending on species
- Sowing depth
- Plant at the same depth as the pot
- Spacing
- 30–60 cm apart
- Sowing
- Plant container-grown stock spring or autumn; divide established clumps in spring
- Growing
- Water well the first season until established; mulch in spring
- Harvest & upkeep
- Cut back faded foliage in late autumn or early spring; divide every 3–4 years
- Watch for
- Slugs and snails on new shoots; otherwise robust
Companion planting for Burnet
No specific companion notes for this plant.
Grow Burnet this year
Add Burnet to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Burnet FAQs
How much sun does Burnet need?
Burnet prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
Is Burnet easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Trendy meadow perennial. 'Tanna' is a compact reliable cultivar.