Growing Achillea (Yarrow): Sun-Loving, Drought-Tolerant Perennial

Growing Achillea (Yarrow)

Pronunciation: ak-ill-ee'uh

Achillea (Yarrow) are valuable garden plants from the North Temperate Zone, widely grown for masses of flowers throughout summer. Flattened flower heads add fresh shape to perennial borders. Yarrows thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, are drought tolerant, and bloom June to September. Newer varieties bloom longer and harder. They also make excellent cut flowers for fresh and dried arrangements.

Encouraging Repeat Bloom

Deadhead spent flowers just above buds of new flowers to encourage repeat bloom.

Companions and Spacing

Ferny foliage pairs well with Peonies, Siberian Iris, and Baptisia. Plant in front half of herbaceous border, spacing 12–18 inches apart. Divide after several years if flower heads diminish.

Growing Conditions

Best in full sun, lean, well-drained soil. Plants tend to flop if grown in shade, over-fertilized, or kept too wet. Fertilize lightly with 10-10-10 in early spring.

Uses

Excellent cut flower, fresh or dried; foliage has a clean herbal fragrance.