Sanguisorba 'Tanna'

Sanguisorba 'Tanna': Petite Form, Natural Poise

Graceful and understated, Sanguisorba 'Tanna' is a compact burnet known for its wiry stems topped with deep burgundy flower spikes that nod gently above tidy mounds of finely cut foliage. Blooming from midsummer into early fall, its slender, drumstick-like blooms add movement and texture without overwhelming the garden. The soft, ferny leaves form a dense base that stays fresh through the season, making this a superb choice for naturalistic or modern plantings where subtle structure and long bloom are prized.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 40–60 cm
• Spread: 30–45 cm
• Flower Colour: Deep burgundy-red
• Flowering Period: Midsummer to early fall
• Foliage: Finely divided, blue-green, fern-like
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to part sun
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil; tolerates average garden soils

Uses and Benefits: Ideal for smaller gardens, border edges, and matrix-style plantings, 'Tanna' offers gentle movement and rich seasonal colour with minimal maintenance. Its restrained size makes it a versatile accent that threads easily between bolder perennials and grasses, while still drawing pollinators and adding vertical texture. Drought tolerant once established and deer resistant, it’s as practical as it is graceful.

Companion Plants: Pair Sanguisorba 'Tanna' with the soft, smoky plumes of Calamagrostis brachytricha, the silvery mounds of Artemisia 'Silver Mound', and the golden summer blooms of Coreopsis verticillata 'Zagreb' for a dynamic, drought-tolerant planting rich in texture, contrast, and movement.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun to part sun with moist, well-drained soil. Water during dry periods, especially in the first growing season. Cut back spent stems in late fall or early spring. Divide every few years to refresh growth and maintain a tidy clump.

History: 'Tanna' is a selected form of Sanguisorba officinalis, favoured for its compact habit, early bloom time, and strong garden presence. A staple in naturalistic design, it lends both restraint and rhythm to perennial plantings.

Final Thoughts: Subtle, sculptural, and seasonally rich, Sanguisorba 'Tanna' brings finesse and quiet drama to the garden—perfect for gardeners who favour elegance over extravagance.