Tanna

Sanguisorba ‘Tanna’ is a compact, architectural perennial known for its deep burgundy, bottlebrush-style flower heads held neatly above finely divided foliage. Flowering from mid to late summer, it adds texture, movement, and a naturalistic feel to borders and planting schemes.

Providing seasonal care is essential to ensure healthy growth, reliable flowering, and long-term performance. Below is a complete seasonal care guide for Sanguisorba ‘Tanna’ throughout the year.

Spring

Pruning and Maintenance

In early spring, cut back any dead stems and old foliage from the previous season using clean, sharp secateurs. This encourages fresh new growth and maintains a tidy clump.

Feed

Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser for flowering perennials in spring as growth begins. This supports healthy development and strong flowering later in the season.

Dividing (if necessary)

Every 3–4 years, Sanguisorba ‘Tanna’ can be divided in spring if clumps become overcrowded. Lift the plant carefully, divide into sections, and replant into well-drained soil with adequate spacing.

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Begin regular watering as temperatures rise, keeping the soil evenly moist during establishment.

Summer

Pruning and Maintenance

Minimal pruning is required during flowering. Remove any damaged or spent stems if needed to maintain a neat appearance, though seed heads can be left for extended interest.

Mulching

Apply a 2 to 3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature during warm weather.

Watering

Sanguisorba ‘Tanna’ prefers consistently moist soil and may suffer in prolonged dry conditions. Water regularly during dry spells, particularly in full sun, and avoid letting the soil dry out completely.

Autumn

Pruning and Maintenance

As flowering finishes, cut back spent stems to the base to tidy the plant. Leave the main crown intact to protect it through winter.

Protection from frost

Refresh the mulch around the base of the plant to provide added insulation as temperatures begin to drop.

Winter

Protection from frost

Sanguisorba ‘Tanna’ is fully hardy and requires little winter protection. A light mulch helps protect the crown from severe frost and winter wet.

Pest and disease prevention

Pests and diseases are generally minimal in winter, but inspect occasionally for signs of rot caused by waterlogged soil and remove any affected growth promptly.

Plant SOS

Wilting foliage – A sign of dry soil during warm weather. Increase watering during dry spells.

Few or no flowers – A sign of insufficient light or poor soil. Move to a sunnier position and improve soil fertility.

Yellowing leaves – A sign of poor drainage or waterlogging. Improve drainage and reduce watering.

Weak stems – A sign of exposure or rapid growth. Provide shelter and avoid overfeeding.

Slow growth – A sign the plant is establishing or needs dividing. Allow time or divide mature clumps.

Holes in leaves – A sign of slug and snail damage. Use Slug and Snail repellent or Slug and Snail control.