Dissected Yarrow
achillea distans
Also known as: ["Dissected Yarrow","Achillea millefolium var. distans"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with finely divided leaves and flat clusters of small, daisy-like flowers, typically white or pinkish.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Achillea |
| Botanical Name: | Achillea distans |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter. Tolerates poor soils but thrives with good drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead regularly during flowering; cut back hard after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, especially after flowering to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to sun. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates. Ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is best; avoid deep shade; rotate pots for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler nights and can withstand light frosts.
Protect from extreme heat; mulch in winter; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; apply before active growth begins.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are best for larger quantities; division is ideal for maintaining plant vigor.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is not in full bloom.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light. Protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand. Sterilized soil is recommended to prevent disease.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates, especially for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Stem cuttings root in 3–6 weeks. Division establishes quickly, often within a growing season.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic bags or propagator for humidity.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp shears. Cut stems just above a leaf node or healthy bud. Remove dead or weak growth.
Pruning Plan
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and vigor.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Clean tools; deadhead regularly; cut back after flowering; remove dead growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; replant in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Division at repotting can rejuvenate older plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; trim roots if needed; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth, reducing frequency in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, sand, or compost to improve drainage and structure. Avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn purple or brown; growth slows; frost can damage tender new growth.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from harsh winds; move containers to sheltered locations.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, or leaf drop in prolonged heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can reduce flowering. Discontinue fertilizing in late summer/autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAchillea distans is not considered toxic to cats. It has not been reported to cause adverse effects in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicAchillea distans is not considered toxic to dogs. It has not been reported to cause adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicAchillea distans is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is commonly used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Achillea distans toxic to pets?
A: No, Achillea distans is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Achillea distans?
A: Water sparingly; it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Achillea distans attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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