With deep wine-red, oval flowerheads held on tall, wiry stems, Sanguisorba 'Plum Drops' creates a striking presence in the garden. The dark green, pinnate foliage stays low to the ground, providing a lush base for the fluffy, plum-coloured bottlebrush flowers that bloom heavily throughout the season. Ideal for prairie-style plantings, this perennial offers a unique "see-through" effect, making it perfect for adding texture and height to borders, and it’s adaptable to a variety of soil conditions, adding enduring beauty to most spots in the garden.
How to care for Sanguisorba Plum Drops:
Plant 30-45cm (12-18in) apart in moderately fertile, moist, but well-drained soil, incorporating compost to improve drainage and fertility. Water regularly during the first season to establish deep roots, then reduce watering as it becomes drought-tolerant. Apply an organic mulch of well-rotted compost to retain moisture and suppress weeds. In late winter or early spring, cut back the previous year's growth to 5-7cm (2-3in) above ground, dividing clumps every 3-4 years to maintain vigour. While rarely needed because of its compact stature, staking may be beneficial in very exposed sites.