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Canadian burnet
This native perennial greatly enhances biodiversity by providing abundant nectar and pollen throughout summer. It is also one of the best choices for ecological landscapes adapted to wet soils.
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Product information
Product
identification
identification
Common nameCanadian Burnet
Latin nameSanguisorba canadensis
FamilyRosaceae
TypeNative perennial
CyclePerennial
Quantity per packMinimum 150 seeds
Code produitAKENE-0062
Product
description
description
Sowing
guide
guide
Sowing periodAutumn or spring after cold stratification
Best time
Autumn or spring
Sowing depth3 mm (0.1 in)
Spacing / density
45 to 60 cm (18 to 24 in)
Germination temperature18 to 20 °C (64 to 68 °F)
Germination time15 to 20 days
Propagation
Propagate primarily by seed after cold stratification or by dividing mature clumps. Both methods establish new colonies quickly in suitable wetland sites.
Growing
method
method
Sow Canadian Burnet seeds in autumn or spring after a period of cold stratification to improve germination. Plant the seeds about 3 mm (0.1 in) deep in a rich growing medium kept consistently moist. Maintain temperatures between 18 and 20°C (64 to 68°F), with germination usually occurring within 15 to 20 days. Transplant seedlings once they are large enough to handle and grow them in moist to waterlogged soil in full sun to partial shade. This native perennial excels in rain gardens, riparian plantings, and ecological restoration projects throughout Canada.
Soil
and care
and care
ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Soil
Loamy to clay, moist to waterlogged soil. This species thrives in rich organic soils that remain consistently moist throughout the growing season.
Soil pHAcidic to neutral
Watering
Regular watering is essential to keep the soil consistently cool to moist throughout the growing season. This species tolerates waterlogged conditions and thrives where moisture remains constant.
Fertilization
An annual application of well-rotted compost in spring is generally sufficient to maintain vigorous growth. Rich organic soils naturally provide the nutrients this perennial requires.
Care levelModerate
In spring, remove the previous year's dry stems and apply a light layer of compost around the plants to encourage vigorous growth. During summer, maintain consistently moist soil, especially during hot weather. Spent flower spikes may be left standing to support wildlife and provide winter interest. In autumn, allow the foliage to decompose naturally, enriching the soil. Once established, Canadian Burnet requires very little maintenance.
Container
growing
growing
Recommended pot size
20 to 30 L (5 to 8 gal)
Canadian Burnet can be grown successfully in a large, deep container capable of retaining consistent moisture throughout the growing season. Use an organic-rich growing medium and never allow the soil to dry completely. This wetland perennial performs especially well in containers placed near water features or in locations receiving morning sun. Container growing allows gardeners to enjoy its elegant foliage and tall white flower spikes while supporting pollinators.
Bloom,
harvest
and garden
harvest
and garden
Its elegant white flower spikes brighten wet gardens while attracting abundant pollinators. This native perennial also stabilizes moist soils and supports ecological restoration.
This native perennial greatly enhances biodiversity by providing abundant nectar and pollen throughout summer. It is also one of the best choices for ecological landscapes adapted to wet soils.
Garden use
Canadian Burnet is ideal for riparian plantings, rain gardens, and ecological restoration projects. Its tall white flower spikes add elegance, height, and movement to naturalistic landscapes. It combines beautifully with sedges, native irises, and Joe-Pye Weeds in wetland gardens while helping stabilize moist soils and supporting a remarkable diversity of pollinators throughout summer.
Bloom period
Elegant white flower spikes emerge above the foliage throughout summer. The blooms attract a remarkable diversity of pollinating insects and remain ornamental for several weeks.
Flower colorCreamy white
Foliage colorGreen
Harvest
Seeds generally mature from August through September. The dried flower spikes may be harvested for seed collection or left standing for ornamental interest.
Fruiting
Small seeds develop in the spent flower spikes during late summer and may contribute to natural reseeding.
Wildlife appealBees and pollinators
Size
and facts
and facts
Height90 cm to 1.5 m (36 to 60 in)
Spread45 to 75 cm (18 to 30 in)
Growth rateModerate
Hardiness zoneUSDA Zones 3–8
Minimum temperature-40°C (-40°F)
Foliage typeDeciduous
Papillonstrue
Insectes utilestrue
Résistant aux cerfstrue
Pet friendlytrue
Planting
partners
partners
Good companions
Curly Sedge, Northern Blue Flag Iris, Spotted Joe-Pye Weed, Rattlesnake Mannagrass
Avoid planting with
Lavender, Cotton Lavender, Blanket Flower, Sedum
Recipe
and inspiration
and inspiration
Canadian Burnet is not generally grown as a food crop, although some species within the genus have a long history of traditional medicinal use. Its greatest value lies in its exceptional ecological and ornamental qualities. The elegant white flowers provide an excellent nectar source for pollinating insects throughout summer, making it an outstanding choice for biodiversity-focused landscapes and naturalized gardens.
Frequently asked questions
Canadian Burnet seeds can be sown in autumn to benefit naturally from freeze-thaw cycles or in spring after cold stratification. This treatment generally improves germination and produces more uniform seedlings.
Its summer blooms produce abundant nectar and pollen, attracting native bees, butterflies, and many other beneficial insects throughout the growing season.
Yes. Canadian Burnet is exceptionally well suited to rain gardens and other wet sites. It tolerates saturated soils while helping stabilize shorelines and improve local biodiversity.
Yes. This native perennial naturally forms attractive colonies in moist habitats and is an excellent choice for ecological restoration and naturalized landscapes.
Once established, Canadian Burnet requires very little maintenance. Simply keep the soil consistently moist and remove the previous year's dry stems each spring to encourage vigorous new growth.
The availability of our seeds varies depending on seasonal availability, production schedules and supplier inventory. Certain varieties may only be offered for a limited time based on their natural growth cycle, sowing period or available stock. These product pages are designed to help and inspire gardeners in choosing the right seeds for vegetable gardens, flower beds, pollinator gardens, container growing, naturalization projects and sustainable outdoor spaces.
