Sanguisorba ‘Plum Drops’ is a distinctive perennial that adds graceful movement and rich color to garden spaces. Its unique flower form and extended bloom time make it a desirable and charming addition to various garden styles.
Getting to Know Sanguisorba ‘Plum Drops’
Sanguisorba obtusa ‘Plum Drops’, commonly known as Japanese burnet, is a captivating herbaceous perennial. It produces deep wine-red to plum-purple, oval or finger-shaped flowerheads that appear to float on slender, wiry stems. These fluffy, bottlebrush-like blooms emerge from mid-summer and continue well into autumn, providing a long season of interest. The plant typically reaches a height of 3 to 4 feet (90-120 cm) and spreads about 18 to 24 inches (45-60 cm), forming an upright, clump-forming habit. Its foliage consists of attractive, finely divided, dark green pinnate leaves that form a dense clump closer to the ground, offering texture and color even when not in bloom. ‘Plum Drops’ is a hardy perennial, generally suitable for USDA Zones 4 through 8.
Optimal Growing Conditions
Sanguisorba ‘Plum Drops’ performs best in full sun to light shade. In cooler climates, full sun is often ideal, while in hotter regions, afternoon shade can help prevent stress and maintain plant vigor. ‘Plum Drops’ prefers moderately fertile, moist, and well-drained soil. While it appreciates consistent moisture, it does not tolerate waterlogging, so good drainage is important.
When initially planting, incorporating organic matter like compost into the soil can improve both drainage and fertility, creating an optimal environment for root development. Proper spacing, around 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart, allows for adequate air circulation and prevents overcrowding. During its first growing season, regular watering is important to help the plant establish a deep and robust root system.
Care and Maintenance
Once established, Sanguisorba ‘Plum Drops’ becomes a relatively low-maintenance perennial. Consistent moisture is beneficial, especially during dry periods, though the plant can become somewhat drought-tolerant once its roots are well-developed. Applying an organic mulch, such as well-rotted compost, around the base of the plant helps retain soil moisture and suppress weed growth.
Fertilizing is generally not heavily required; however, if growth appears sluggish or the soil is particularly poor, a balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer applied in early spring can provide a gentle boost. Deadheading spent flower spikes can encourage a tidier appearance and potentially prolong the blooming period by diverting energy from seed production to new flowers.
In late winter or early spring, before new growth begins, the previous year’s stems should be cut back to about 2-3 inches (5-7 cm) above ground level to promote fresh, vigorous growth. Established clumps can be divided every three to four years in spring to maintain plant vigor and create new plants.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Sanguisorba ‘Plum Drops’ is generally a robust plant, but a few issues can occasionally arise. While not commonly plagued by severe pests, aphids or slugs might sometimes be observed. Aphids can be dislodged with a strong spray of water, and slug damage can be mitigated by reducing overly moist conditions around the plant base.
Fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew, may occur in conditions with high humidity and poor air circulation. To minimize these problems, ensure proper plant spacing to allow for good airflow and maintain consistent soil moisture without overwatering. Promptly removing any diseased foliage can prevent the spread of fungal spores. Ensuring the plant is grown in its preferred conditions of moist, well-drained soil and adequate sunlight can significantly reduce the likelihood of these challenges.
Integrating ‘Plum Drops’ into Your Garden
Sanguisorba ‘Plum Drops’ offers versatility in garden design due to its upright, airy habit and long bloom time. Its distinctive form makes it suitable for cottage gardens, perennial borders, and naturalistic or prairie-style plantings. The “see-through” effect of its tall, wiry stems allows it to be placed toward the front or middle of borders without obstructing views of plants behind it. This perennial pairs well with ornamental grasses like Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) or other naturalistic perennials that provide contrasting textures. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the nectar-rich blooms of ‘Plum Drops’ attract pollinators, including bees and butterflies, contributing to garden biodiversity. It also makes a good cut flower, bringing its unique form and deep plum color indoors.