Sanguisorba 'Little Angel'

Sanguisorba 'Little Angel': Pint-Sized Drama, Feathered Flair

Charming and compact, Sanguisorba 'Little Angel' delivers all the grace of taller burnets in a tidy, garden-friendly form. Deep crimson flower spikes rise above finely textured, silver-veined foliage from midsummer into fall, offering movement, contrast, and pollinator appeal. The neatly mounded leaves are attractive from spring onward, forming a soft base for the wiry stems that dance with every breeze. Perfect for edging or small-space borders, this dwarf burnet is a naturalistic gem with season-spanning interest.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 30–40 cm
• Spread: 30–40 cm
• Flower Colour: Deep crimson
• Flowering Period: Midsummer to early fall
• Foliage: Blue-green with silver margins, finely cut
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to part sun
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil; adaptable to average conditions

Uses and Benefits: 'Little Angel' is ideal for edging, rock gardens, low-maintenance borders, and pollinator plantings where its fine texture and long bloom period offer subtle sophistication. Deer resistant and easy to grow, it works beautifully in naturalistic schemes or modern designs that value soft lines and airy structure. Despite its size, it delivers real impact, especially when repeated in rhythm or contrasted with bold foliage.

Companion Plants: Pair Sanguisorba 'Little Angel' with the lavender-blue waves of Nepeta 'Walker's Low', the golden groundcover brilliance of Sedum 'Angelina', and the deep, glossy foliage of Heuchera 'Obsidian' for a dynamic and textural planting that blends colour, contrast, and movement in full sun.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun to part sun with moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly during dry spells, especially in summer. Cut back spent flower stems to tidy the plant or leave them for winter interest. Divide every few years to maintain vigour and compact form.

History: A dwarf cultivar of Sanguisorba, 'Little Angel' was selected for its compact stature, ornamental foliage, and prolific flowering. It combines the wild charm of its larger relatives with a more refined habit suitable for smaller gardens and detailed plantings.

Final Thoughts: Delicate yet bold, Sanguisorba 'Little Angel' is a masterclass in balance—offering soft movement, rich colour, and compact form in one elegant package. A delightful addition to any sun-filled perennial tapestry.