European Great Burnet

(Sanguisorba officinalis)

European Great Burnet (Sanguisorba officinalis L.)

Alien: Native of Europe.

Identification: Flowers red-purple, small, with only 4 petals and 4 stamens. Flowers arranged in compact, oblong heads. Leaves compound with several pairs of opposite, heart-shaped leaflets and an apical leaflet. Outer margin of leaflets toothed. Plant arising from a thickened, basal root. Plant 10 to 24 inches in height.

Distribution: Found in scattered populations from Minnesota to Maine. Also occurs along the Pacific Coast.

Habitat: European Great Burnet is found in damp grassy meadows and fields.

Flowering period: June to October.

Similar Species: The combination of the compact, oblong flower heads and the compound leaves easily identify this species.