Dalmatian Yarrow
achillea clavennae
Also known as: ["Clavenna Yarrow","Dalmatian Milfoil"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to the Mediterranean region, known for its flat-topped clusters of small, daisy-like flowers and finely divided leaves.
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 clavennae |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or raised beds with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season; perform a heavier prune in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid cutting into old wood.
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 heat in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate pots for even growth; use reflective mulch to boost light in shaded areas; avoid placing near heat-reflecting surfaces.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; use gravel in pot drainage holes; avoid over-amending with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); thrives in Mediterranean climates with mild summers and cool winters.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; use organic options like compost tea for gentle feeding; stop fertilizing when blooms fade.
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.
- 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), humid, and shaded environment with 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 typically form in 3–4 weeks; plants may take 2–3 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud; shear back flower stalks after blooming.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, bypass cutters, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; remove spent flowers; shape as needed.
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; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for rejuvenation and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; avoid wetting foliage; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; ensure water penetrates deeply (6–8 inches); allow excess to drain away; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use raised beds in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage or dormancy; prolonged frost may kill tender growth.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; move potted plants to sheltered locations; use frost cloth for protection in extreme cold.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, reduced flowering, and dehydration.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; increase watering frequency; use light-colored mulch to reflect heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; rinse tools after use.
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 clavennae is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicAchillea clavennae is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicAchillea clavennae is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is commonly used in herbal medicine and landscaping without reported adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Achillea clavennae be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. It is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Does Achillea clavennae attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Can Achillea clavennae be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers, provided the pot has good drainage and is placed in full sun.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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