A seed grown hybrid with a wide range of pastel colors. Plants will flower the first year.
Pronunciation
(ak-i-LEE-ah)(mil-lee-FO-le-um)
Plant Type
All Plants, Perennials Hardy
Hardiness Zone
4-9
Sunlight
full
Moisture
average, tolerates dry once establish, grows floppy in moist conditions
Soil & Site
average to poor, never rich, poorly drained or wet
Flowers
a flat terminal corymbs of small 1/4" flowers, color: pastel shades of pink, yellow, white, salmon, orange and mauve.
Leaves
simple, green, finely divided giving them a fern-like texture and strongly aromatic. The larger basal leaves have long petioles and the smaller upper leaves are sessile.
Stems
spreads by rhizoms
Dimensions
24 inches tall with a spread of 18-24 plus inches
Maintenance
After the flowers have faded cut to within 2 inches of the ground. Divided every 2-3 years to maintain the vigor of the plant. Deadheading helps to extend the flowering season but many flowers fade to nice colors and there are lots of flowers.
Propagation
seeds, division
Native Site
The species plant Common Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is native to Europe and Western Asia and considered to be a weed in many areas.
Misc Facts
It was in cultivation prior to 1440 and used as a herbal remedy for many aliments. The Greek name honors Achilles a warrior of the Trojan wars. 1990 AAS winner.
Author's Notes
I have grown many different varieties of Achillea millefolium. There seems to be a few secrets to successfully growing them. Avoid rich, moist, poorly drained soils and plant in a full sun site. Also cut back hard after the bloom fades.