Sanguisorba officinalis Red Thunder (Great Burnet)

Sanguisorba officinalis ‘Red Thunder’ (Great Burnet) is a clump-forming, herbaceous perennial forming a neat mound of dark green leaves, each finely divided into oblong leaflets. Rich burgundy-red bottlebrush flowers appear atop slender stems from midsummer to fall.

Sanguisorba officinalis 'Red Thunder' (Great Burnet) is a clump-forming, herbaceous perennial forming a neat mound of dark green leaves, each finely divided into oblong leaflets. Rich burgundy-red bottlebrush flowers appear atop slender stems from midsummer to fall. They weave through other perennials, adding color and life to the late summer garden. A majestic plant that is perfect for adding vertical interest and movement to sunny borders and prairie plantings.

  • Grows up to 3-4 ft. tall (90-120 cm) and 2 ft. wide (60 cm). Usually needs staking.
  • Performs best in full sun in moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soils that do not dry out. Give it afternoon shade in hot summer climates.
  • Makes a lovely accent in beds and borders, cottage gardens, or prairie plantings. Great for cutting.
  • Virtually pest and disease free. Deer resistant.
  • Propagate by division in spring.

Requirements

Hardiness 4
– 8

Heat Zones 3
– 8

Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Sanguisorba – Burnets
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Mid,Late)Fall
Height 3'
– 4'
(90cm
– 120cm)
Spread 1'
– 2'
(30cm
– 60cm)
Spacing 24″ (60cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Cut Flowers, Showy
Tolerance Deer, Rabbit
Garden Uses Beds and Borders
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow