Scented Yarrow
achillea odorata
Also known as: ["Fragrant Yarrow","Sweet Yarrow"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant known for its fragrant foliage and clusters of small, daisy-like flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","disease resistant","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 odorata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season; shape prune in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate. Remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with tolerance for partial shade in hot climates. Adjust exposure based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains in intense sun; provide dappled shade in peak summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water at the base to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler temperatures but may struggle above 85°F (29°C).
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature for indoor plants.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in dormant periods; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/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
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut stems just above a leaf node or lateral bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Clean bypass pruners, sharp scissors, or your fingers for small stems.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as needed; clean up debris
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 needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. May become root-bound if left too long.
Checklist
Choose new pot; prepare fresh soil; inspect roots; water after repotting
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Avoid wetting foliage to minimize disease risk. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use lime to raise pH if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or premature flowering in extreme heat; leaf drop or dormancy in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors; use mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Increase watering frequency; provide afternoon shade; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid 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 odorata is not considered toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk to felines when ingested in normal amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicAchillea odorata is not considered toxic to dogs. It is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested by canines in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicAchillea odorata is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is commonly used in herbal remedies and is generally safe for consumption in moderation.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Achillea odorata fragrant?
A: Yes, it is known for its fragrant foliage and flowers.
Q: Does Achillea odorata attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is Achillea odorata toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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