10 Best Yarrow Plants for Heating up the Summer Garden

Botanical name:

Achillea spp. and hybrids

Plant type:

Herbaceous perennial

Zones:

Typically zones 3-9, but can vary depending on the cultivar.

Exposure:

Full sun

Height:

Varies by species, ranging anywhere from 8 inches to 5 feet tall

When do yarrow plants bloom?

Early summer to early fall, depending on the climate. In warmer growing zones, flowering begins earlier; in cooler zones it often continues into fall.

Flowers:

Yarrow produces an abundance of broad, flat-topped flower clusters (or corymbs) made up of dozens of tiny daisy-like florets. Yarrow flower colors range from white and soft pastels to brilliant shades of yellow, red, orange, and gold. Some cultivars, such as ‘Red Velvet’, have flowers with contrasting center stamens.

Foliage:

The feathery foliage is also attractive, with finely divided gray or green leaves that remain evergreen in warmer climates. Leaves are aromatic, releasing a pleasant herbal scent when crushed.

Are yarrow plants deer resistant?

Yarrow aren't bothered by deer or rabbits.

Planting:

Sow seeds or plant nursery-grown plants in fall (well before the first average frost date) or in early spring after the danger of frost has passed. Most yarrows grown from seed will be inconsistent in height and flower color. If you want a specific color, height or form, buy potted plants.

Soil:

Although yarrow will grow well in just about any type of soil, taller types tend to flop in soils that are rich or overly moist. They are at their best growing in slightly acidic, well-drained soil. “If you have trouble growing yarrow, it’s most likely because your soil is too wet. Plant it on high, dry spots,” recommend Jeff and Marilyn Cox.

Water and fertilizer:

Yarrow is one perennial that actually thrives on neglect, and your plants will suffer if you overwater or overfertilize them. Keep the soil evenly moist until the roots become established, but after that only water your plants when the soil is completely dry. Fertilization is rarely needed.

Dividing:

Yarrow spreads quickly by rhizomes. Divide every 2 to 3 years in spring or fall to avoid overcrowding and to reinvigorate plants that begin to look matted and untidy.

Pruning:

Deadheading yarrow will encourage repeat blooming and often prolong flowering into fall. If your plants become too tall and lanky, shearing back the foliage will make them bushier and often eliminate the need for staking. To reduce disease problems, thin out plants that become overcrowded and cut out any dead growth.

Staking:

Taller varieties may require staking.

Pests and diseases:

Yarrow generally has few disease and pest problems, but can be prone to powdery mildew and stem rot if planted in shady or wet sites. Yarrow may also be troubled by botrytis (gray mold). Also, keep an eye out for aphids, mealybugs, and spittlebugs.

• Use low-growing forms of yarrow as a soft-looking evergreen edging or even as an alternative to turf grass in dry climates. Because yarrow spreads by rhizomes, it will quickly form dense mats of water-thrifty foliage. Read more about alternative lawn plants.
• Varieties with silver foliage and pale flowers, such as ‘Moonshine’, are great additions to evening gardens, alongside other plants with shimmery light-reflective foliage.
• Use yarrows with rich yellow or gold tones, such as ‘Coronation Gold’, as a warm contrast to blue, purple or violet perennials, such as speedwell (Veronica spicata), Geranium ‘Johnson’s Blue’ and salvias (see Color in the Garden).
• Plant yarrow in pollinator gardens along with other perennials that attract bees and butterflies, such as butterfly weed and bee balm.
• Because of their drought tolerance, yarrows are an ideal choice for low-water or xeriscape gardens.
• Yarrows with compact growth habits and eye-catching colors, such as ‘Paprika’ and ‘Peachy Seduction’, make splendid “thriller” plants in outdoor container combinations. The large, flat-topped blooms look like colorful sun parasols while the feathery foliage adds great texture.
• To enjoy yarrow in dried flower arrangements, tie fresh-cut bunches into bundles and hang them upside down by the stems in a cool, dry place. The dried flower heads will retain their color for months.