Menzies' burnet
Sanguisorba menziesii
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Pl. 9674 — Sanguisorba menziesii
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IOverview
Overview
Menzies' burnet (Sanguisorba menziesii) is a perennial herb native to Denmark, known for its light and airy form that reaches up to 1.2 meters in height. This plant thrives in moist to wet soils with a pH between 7 and 7.5, making it adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). Menzies' burnet is valued for its edible leaves, which can be used in culinary applications. Its distinctive features include its sprawling habit and the ability to grow in a range of conditions, contributing to its ornamental appeal as well as its utility in the kitchen.
Quick answers
What is Menzies' burnet?
Menzies' burnet (Sanguisorba menziesii) is a perennial herb native to Denmark, known for its light and airy form that reaches up to 1.2 meters in height. This plant thrives in moist to wet soils with a pH between 7 and 7.5, making it adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Menzies' burnet is a perennial herb that thrives in moist to wet conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH of 7–7.5. It requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. The plant can reach heights of 1.2 meters and is hardy in temperate regions. For cultivation, focus on providing consistent moisture and well-drained soil. Harvest the edible leaves for use in culinary applications. Propagation can be done through division or seed sowing.
Light
8/10
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.2 m tall
Soil pH
7–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Menzies' burnet for the first time
8steps
Start with Menzies' burnet for a low-maintenance, beginner-friendly herb.
- 1
What you'll need
A small plant or seeds, a container or garden bed, and basic gardening tools.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is moist, well-draining, with a pH of 7–7.5; use a pot with drainage holes if planting in containers.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from a nursery or sow seeds directly into the garden after danger of frost has passed.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist; avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light watering during dry spells and mulch around the base for moisture retention. Prune back after flowering to encourage new growth.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune regularly to maintain shape and promote healthy growth; cut back stems just above a leaf node.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in too heavy soil, neglecting regular pruning, and not providing enough light.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: Menzies' burnet's leaves are edible and can be consumed fresh or cooked. They are often used in salads for their mild, slightly bitter taste. The leaves can also be steamed or added to soups and stews. Skip drying the leaves as they lose much of their flavor.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe15 regions
native (15)AlbaniaAustriaBelarusBelgiumBulgariaDenmarkFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryIcelandIrelandItalyRussiaUnited Kingdom
Asia2 regions
native (2)ChinaIran
Americas1 region
native (1)United States
Broader regions
native:Irkutsk, Baltic States, British Columbia, California, Czechoslovakia, Altay, Amur, Buryatiya, Chita
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
XII
About this entry
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- Citation
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 9674097a-ca60-4113-95b4-91849874ddab
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