Achillea (Yarrow)

The Origins and Botanical Background of the Achillea Flower
Yarrow is a genus of flowering plants in the Asteraceae family, known for its flat-topped flower clusters and exceptional adaptability across climates. The genus name “Achillea” refers to Achilles from Greek mythology, who reportedly used Yarrow to treat wounds during the Trojan Wars. Yarrow has many common names, including “Old Man's Pepper” and “Soldier's Woundwort.” Over time, nearly 1,000 species and names have been published within the genus, reflecting its wide distribution and variation. It is found in disturbed areas, such as fields and roadsides.

Yarrow Achillea “Millefolium”
Achillea “Millefolium” (common Yarrow) is the most widely known species within the Achillea genus. It is an herbaceous perennial native to temperate regions of Europe and large parts of North America. Gardeners value Yarrow for its long bloom period, strong stems, and robust performance in the garden.

Flowers, Foliage, and Form: What Makes the Achillea Flower Stand Out
Achillea is known for its clusters of tiny blooms in shades ranging from bright yellows and reds to soft pinks, purples, and white flowers. Its feathery, fern-like leaves add a unique texture to flower beds, borders, and container gardens. The upright and sturdy stems, which range in height from 14 to 40 inches, hold the flowers well above the (medium green) foliage.

Easy to grow and drought-tolerant, Yarrow thrives in various conditions and re-blooms with minimal maintenance. This hardy perennial adds long-lasting beauty and pollinator appeal to any garden space. Yarrow blooms generously from early summer into fall, providing months of color and interest.

Why US Gardeners Choose Achillea (Yarrow)
Yarrow is an attractive plant for gardeners who want reliable performance with minimal maintenance. If you garden in full sun and deal with drought, poor soil, or exposed sites, Yarrow fits naturally into your planting plan.

Achillea Yarrow works especially well for:

• Sunny borders with perennials and grasses
• Cottage, cutting, and wildlife gardens
• Rock gardens and naturalized plantings
• Gardeners seeking long-lasting summer flowers

Both experienced gardeners and beginners appreciate Achillea flowers. They establish easily, tolerate drought, and continue to bloom even in challenging conditions. Deer tend to avoid it, while butterflies, bees, moths, and other beneficial insects actively seek it out.

Popular Achillea Varieties: From Crème de la Crème to Sparkling Contrast
Yarrow comes in different shapes, sizes, and flower colors, making it a versatile plant for both experienced gardeners and beginners. At DutchGrown, you can find, for example:

• Achillea “Crème de la Crème”: This variety has clusters of yellow flowers that create a soft, cloud-like canopy above lush, ferny green foliage.
• Achillea “Ending Blue”: This variety has blooms that shift in color from soft shades of pink to a subtle, bluish tint as they mature.
• Achillea “Sparkling Contrast”: This is an eye-catching yarrow variety that lives up to its name with its striking display of vibrant, deep red blooms contrasted by soft, silvery-grey foliage.

What Are the Growing Conditions for Achillea?
Achillea’s easy-going nature makes it a perfect addition to any garden. If you're ready to add some vibrant color to your borders, here is how to get started:

• Time: The best time to plant your Achillea bare roots is in the spring, after the last frost has passed.
• Location: Yarrow thrives in sunny locations with well-draining soil. They are highly drought-tolerant and perfectly suited to dry or sandy soils.
• Depth: Plant each root crown at the soil surface after digging a hole. Fill in the hole with soil and tamp down lightly to remove air pockets.
• Water: After planting, water well to settle the roots. Achillea thrives best with moderate moisture, so avoid waterlogged soil to prevent root rot.
• Maintenance: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms. After flowering, trim plants back by up to half their size in the fall.
• Years to establish: It typically takes 2 to 3 years for the plant to become established.

Top-Quality Achillea Bare Roots for Sale at Dutchgrown
Are you ready to create a vibrant garden with Achillea? You came to the right place. At DutchGrown, we select Yarrow bare roots with the same care we have applied for generations. When you plant Achillea from our collection, you choose the best strength, garden performance, and reliable bloom. Explore our selection and choose a perennial that rewards you season after season with structure, flowers, and quiet confidence in your garden. We ship throughout the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions About Achillea

Do Achillea Come Back Every Year?
Yarrow (Achillea) comes back every year. It is a hardy perennial in USDA zones 4–8, meaning the plant survives winter and returns each spring. Once planted, Achillea establishes a strong root system and becomes more reliable over time. Expect the best performance after 2–3 years, when plants are fully established and produce consistent, long-lasting blooms each season.

Is Achillea Yarrow Invasive?
Common Yarrow (Achillea Millefolium) can be invasive in several regions. The plant spreads via rhizomes and self-seeding, allowing it to expand beyond its original planting area. Proper care should be used to prevent the plant from spreading beyond its desired growing location.

Do Achilleas like Sun or Shade?
Achilleas prefer full sun. They grow best, producing the strongest stems and most abundant flowers, when planted in a sunny location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Where Is the Best Place to Plant Achillea?
The best place to plant Achillea is in a sunny spot with well-draining soil. It thrives in full sun and performs especially well in dry or sandy soils where many plants struggle. Achillea is drought-tolerant once established and grows reliably in USDA zones 4–8, making it a strong choice for open borders, slopes, and low-maintenance garden areas.