Sanguisorba officinalis (Great Burnet) 9 cm pot

Growth habit & appearance: Sanguisorba officinalis is a striking clump-forming perennial distinguished by tall wiry stems topped with deep wine-red, oval flower spikes that sway above neat, serrated foliage. The blooms are rich in tannins and were highly regarded in traditional medicine, while the plant also plays a key ecological role—its flowers draw bees, hoverflies and solitary pollinators, and its foliage supports various caterpillar species, making it an anchor species for damp wildflower meadows in Ireland.

Growing conditions: Fully hardy in Ireland and very tolerant of Atlantic weather, Great Burnet thrives in full sun to part shade in moisture-retentive soil that never fully dries. It naturally occurs in damp grasslands across Europe and adapts well to Irish meadows, stream margins and cottage-style beds. Once settled, it develops slowly spreading crowns that return reliably each year.

Traditional & herbal uses: Traditionally valued as a haemostatic herb for managing bleeding, Sanguisorba officinalis has a long history in European materia medica. The root and aerial parts were used for intestinal bleeding, nosebleeds and external wound care, and its high tannin content contributes to its astringent character. It remains appreciated in modern herbalism for its grounding, cooling nature.

Maintenance & harvesting: Plants grown from seed in our nursery establish well when planted out in spring or autumn. Divide mature crowns every few years to maintain vigour and increase stock. Harvest aerial parts through summer as needed, and lift the root only when the plant is fully dormant in winter. Deadheading prolongs flowering but leaving some flower heads provides seed for wildlife.