Canadian burnet
sanguisorba canadensis
Also known as: ["Canadian burnet","American burnet"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial native to North America, known for its distinctive feathery flowers and hardy nature.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Sanguisorba |
| Botanical Name: | Sanguisorba canadensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings or naturalized areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate. Remove up to one-third of old growth if the plant becomes leggy or overcrowded.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade. Protect from intense midday sun in hot regions to prevent scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Monitor for leaf scorch; provide afternoon shade in hot climates; rotate pots for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently during drought
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; amend with organic matter annually; check pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cold but may struggle in extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize sparingly; apply before new growth emerges; stop fertilizing in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing but not stressed.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light. Maintain consistent moisture until roots develop.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; moist, rich soil for division.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for stem cuttings to improve success rates.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 4–6 weeks; division can be established in the current growing season.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to healthy buds or lateral branches. Remove spent flower stalks after blooming.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged growth, and encourage bushier foliage.
Tools
Pruning shears, bypass cutters, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape the plant; remove spent flowers; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; inspect roots; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for weather conditions.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry moderately before the next watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during the growing season, reducing frequency in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure. Incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in temperatures below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; protect from harsh winds; move containers to sheltered locations.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop in prolonged heat above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply lightly, following package instructions, and avoid over-fertilizing.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSanguisorba canadensis is not considered toxic to cats. It has no known toxic effects or physiological impact when ingested by cats.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSanguisorba canadensis is not considered toxic to dogs. It has no known toxic effects or physiological impact when ingested by dogs.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSanguisorba canadensis is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known toxic effects or physiological impact when ingested in typical amounts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Sanguisorba canadensis grow?
A: It typically reaches 2–4 feet in height.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun with adequate moisture.
Q: Is it deer resistant?
A: Yes, it is generally deer resistant due to its texture and taste.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
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