Prairie Burnet
Sanguisorba annua

Family: Rosaceae

What it is like

Sanguisorba annua is a ANNUAL/BIENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 0.6

Where it is found

Grassy flats, especially on semi-wasteland or where the soil is moist in spring, sagebrush and woodland.

Western N. America - British Columbia to California.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

Leaves - cooked. They are not choice.

Medicine

Rating: 1

Astringent.

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in most parts of the country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in ordinary garden soil. Prefers a good moist soil that does not dry out in the summer, in sun or partial shade.

Propagating it: Seed - sow spring or autumn in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in early summer.

Best place to grow:

Habit: Annual/Biennial

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Sanguisorba occidentalis (Nutt.).Poteridium annuum (Nutt. ex Hook.) Spach