Burnet, Herb Burnet (Sanguisorba minor) 2g approx. 300 seeds.

Herb Burnet or Salad Burnet, also known as Sanguisorba minor, is a perennial herb that belongs to the family Rosaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found in meadows, wetlands, and along the banks of streams.

Herb Burnet is a perennial plant known for its deep green, serrated foliage and pinkish-white flowers that bloom from mid-summer to fall. To grow Herb Burnet from seed, follow these steps: 1. Sow seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area. 2. Use small pots or seed trays filled with a well-draining seed starting mix. 3. Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil, allowing light to germinate. 4. Water the seeds gently and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. 5. Provide a temperature of around 60-70°F (15-21°C) for germination. 6. Place the containers in a bright, sunny spot or under grow lights. 7. Germination takes 2-3 weeks. Transplanting seedlings outdoors involves hardening off the seeds, planting them outdoors after the last frost date, and spacing them 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart in an area with full sun to partial shade. Plant care includes watering, fertilizing, pruning, preventing pests and diseases, and deadheading spent flowers. If direct sowing outside, choose a sunny to partially shaded area with well-draining soil.

Herb Burnet can also be propagated by division in the spring or autumn.

Herb Burnet is a low-maintenance plant that adds beauty and utility to your garden. Its leaves can be used in salads, as a garnish, or to add flavor to various dishes.

**Botanical Name:** Sanguisorba minor

**Common Names:** Burnet, salad burnet, small burnet, garden burnet, lesser burnet

**Description:** Herb Burnet has finely divided, toothed leaves that are arranged in a basal rosette and are somewhat hairy. The leaves are typically green and can turn a reddish-bronze color with age. The plant produces small, reddish-purple flowers in the summer, which are arranged in clusters on tall, slender stems. The flowers are followed by clusters of small, dry, one-seeded achenes. It grows to a height of about 15-60 cm (6-24 inches) and has a spread of 15-45 cm (6-18 inches).

**Habitat:** Herb Burnet prefers well-drained, moist, and fertile soils in full sun or partial shade. It is often found in meadows, fields, and along the banks of streams, but can also thrive in gardens and other disturbed habitats.

**Cultivation:** This herb is easy to grow from seed or by dividing established clumps. It can be sown directly into the garden in spring or started indoors and transplanted after the last frost date. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH and benefits from regular watering during dry spells. It is relatively low maintenance and can tolerate some light shade.

**Culinary Uses:** The leaves of Herb Burnet have a pleasant, cucumber-like flavour and are used in salads, soups, and as a garnish. The young leaves are best for eating raw, while older leaves can be cooked like spinach. The leaves can also be used to flavour vinegar, oils, and sauces. Additionally, it is a traditional ingredient in some European dishes and beverages.

**Medicinal Uses:** Historically, Herb Burnet has been used for its astringent and styptic properties. It has been applied to wounds and taken internally to treat diarrhoea and haemorrhage. It is also considered a diuretic and a good source of vitamin C. Some modern herbalists use it to treat digestive issues and to help with blood purification.

**Other Uses:** The plant is also used in landscaping for its attractive foliage and as a butterfly and bee attractant due to its nectar-rich flowers. It is a host to the burnet companion moth (Euclidia glyphica), whose larvae feed exclusively on burnet species.The leaves can be dried and used in potpourri or as a natural dye.

**Propagation:** Herb Burnet can be propagated by seed, division, or root cuttings. Seeds can be sown in early spring or late summer, while divisions are best done in the fall or early spring. Root cuttings can be taken in autumn or winter.

**Care:** To keep Herb Burnet healthy, ensure it has adequate moisture and cut back the flower stalks after they have finished blooming to encourage bushier growth. It can be susceptible to powdery mildew if grown in poorly drained or overly shaded conditions.

**Companion Planting:** Herb Burnet is often used as a companion plant in the garden because it is believed to repel certain pests and improve soil health. It is a good neighbour to roses, as it can deter aphids and improve the soil’s fertility.

**Hardiness:** Herb Burnet is hardy in the UK and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, including cold winters and hot summers.

**Symbolism:** In medieval times, the plant was associated with love and was often used in love potions and as a token of affection. It was also used to treat wounds, which is reflected in its Latin name “sanguisorba,” which means “to stop bleeding.”

**Toxicity:** While Herb Burnet is generally safe for human and animal consumption, it should be used in moderation. The plant can cause stomach upset if eaten in large quantities. It is also important to ensure that the plant is correctly identified before using it for medicinal purposes.

**Conservation Status:** Although Herb Burnet is not currently threatened, its natural habitats are sometimes at risk due to development and changes in land use.

**Interesting Facts:**

– The roots of Herb Burnet can be roasted and used as a coffee substitute.

– The leaves can be crushed and rubbed on the skin to repel mosquitoes.

– The genus name “Sanguisorba” is derived from the Latin words “sanguis” (blood) and “sorbare” (to suck), referring to its historical use in treating wounds and bleeding.

Herb Burnet is a versatile and attractive plant that offers both culinary and medicinal benefits. Its cucumber-like flavor adds a unique twist to dishes and its low maintenance requirements make it a valuable addition to any garden or kitchen herb collection.