Sea Yarrow
achillea maritima
Also known as: ["Coastal Yarrow","Mediterranean Yarrow"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to the Mediterranean region, known for its feathery foliage and clusters of small, daisy-like flowers.
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 maritima |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, coastal gardens, or raised beds with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; lightly prune throughout the growing season as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on deadheading and shaping.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate 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
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot; water early in the day to minimize fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with low fertility
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates heat but may struggle below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid drafts; use shade cloth in summer; protect from frost in winter.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back flower stalks to the nearest healthy leaf or bud; trim leggy growth to just above a node.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming and maintain compact growth. Trim leggy stems to improve shape.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; cut at a 45-degree angle; remove dead/damaged growth; sanitize tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Ensure proper drainage to prevent standing water.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth, reducing frequency to once a month in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced evaporation.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAchillea maritima is not considered toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk of poisoning when ingested or handled by cats.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicAchillea maritima is not considered toxic to dogs. It is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested or handled by dogs.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicAchillea maritima is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has been used traditionally in herbal medicine for its potential health benefits.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Achillea maritima suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is highly tolerant of salty air and sandy soils, making it ideal for coastal landscapes.
Q: How often should I water Achillea maritima?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Achillea maritima attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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