Dwarf Yarrow
achillea nana
Also known as: ["Dwarf Milfoil","Rocky Mountain Yarrow"]
Overview
A compact, low-growing perennial with finely dissected foliage and clusters of small, daisy-like flowers, typically in shades of pink, white, or yellow.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Achillea |
| Botanical Name: | Achillea nana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border fronts, rock gardens, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30 to 40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining; essential to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season; prune back by one-third in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; regular deadheading and light shaping; heavier pruning in spring for rejuvenation.
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 plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is ideal; rotate pots for even growth; avoid deep shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries 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 fast drainage; avoid waterlogged soil; enrich with compost annually.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–8; tolerates cold winters down to -30°F (-34°C); prefers moderate temperatures in summer (60–75°F / 15–24°C).
Protect from extreme heat; ensure good drainage in cold; mulch in winter.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid leggy growth; stop feeding in late summer to encourage winter hardiness; use a balanced formula.
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 (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F / 18–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; plants may take 1–2 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; cut just above a leaf node or lateral branch; remove dead or crossing stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove spent flowers for prolonged blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, bypass cutters, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools before use; prune dead or damaged stems; deadhead regularly; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for rejuvenation and growth.
Checklist
Choose a clean pot; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water exits the container or bed to prevent waterlogging.
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 dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in extreme heat; stunted growth or bud drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Achillea nana is cold-hardy but may suffer root damage in poorly drained soil during freezing temperatures.
Solution: Ensure well-drained soil; apply a layer of mulch for insulation; avoid overwatering in winter.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; water deeply to encourage deep roots; increase humidity if grown indoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
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 nana 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 nana is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicAchillea nana 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 nana be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant.
Q: Does Achillea nana attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Achillea nana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it thrives in containers as long as it has well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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