Species greater burnet
clusters of small, pink flowers with pink-white stamens, green petioles, and green stem

greater burnet

Pimpinella major

The greater burnet (Pimpinella major) is a widespread, perennial herb native to Europe and western Asia. It is a small plant, with hairy stems up to one meter high, that produces large yellow flowers and corky fruits. The leaves are triangular shaped and divided into lanceolate leaflets. The plant grows on dry grassland and meadows. Its leaves and shoots can be eaten raw or cooked. The fruits have a peppery taste and are a popular addition to salads or wild food dishes. Greater burnet is popular among gardeners and herbalists alike for its versatile properties, being used to treat a variety of ailments.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 8

Flowers:

White Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Fruits:

brown,black Fruits Ready In Fall

Edible:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Greater Burnet (Pimpinella major) should be watered when the soil begins to feel dry about an inch below the surface. Check the soil every 3 days and water accordingly. Make sure you are not overwatering, which may lead to root rot, as this plant thrives in somewhat dry conditions. A good rule of thumb is to water enough so that the soil is moist, but not soaking wet. In a warmer climate, you may need to water more frequently. The amount of water you water should be determined by how large the pot is and the climate of the area. Generally, water with about 1-2 inches of water for a 12 inch pot, and about 3-4 inches to a 15 inch pot.

sunlight

The greater burnet plant species typically prefers full sun in order to be able to grow optimally. This means that it should be exposed to direct sunlight for at least 6 hours per day in order to maximize the amount of energy it can draw from the sun. The 6 hour length varies depending on the region and season, but in general, exposure to some form of direct sunlight should be consistent throughout the day in order for the plant to maintain a healthy level of growth. In order for the greater burnet to reach its full growth potential, it should ideally be exposed to the full amount of sunlight of its particular region.

pruning

Pruning Greater Burnet (Pimpinella major) is best performed in late spring or early summer to promote bushier growth. Prune the plant back by about a third of its height and width by snipping off at least a quarter of the stems at their base, just above a node or junction point. This will promote vigorous, healthy new growth and help maintain the desired shape of the shrub. Pruning can be repeated as necessary to keep the plant in shape. Deadheading of faded and dying flowers can help to promote continual blooms during the flowering period.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Pimpinella major typically begins in July and ends in September.

Starts Flowering

Greater burnet typically starts flowering in June.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Pimpinella major typically begins in July and ends in September.

Hardiness Map