How to prune sanguisorba officinalis

Deadhead mid–late summer as blooms fade; cut back in late autumn or early spring. Remove spent flower stems to the base to reduce self-seeding. In autumn or spring, cut all stems to ground level. The basal foliage is semi-evergreen in mild winters and can be left for protection.

Deadhead as needed mid-season; one annual cutback in autumn or spring. Sanguisorba officinalis (great burnet) needs minimal pruning. Deadhead spent flower stems to prevent excessive self-seeding if that is a concern, or leave seed-heads for wildlife and winter interest. Cut all growth back to ground level in late autumn or early spring. Division every 3–4 years maintains vigour.

Remove spent flower stems to the base to reduce self-seeding. In autumn or spring, cut all stems to ground level. The basal foliage is semi-evergreen in mild winters and can be left for protection.