Rose White Yarrow
achillea roseo-alba
Also known as: ["Rose White Yarrow","Common Yarrow"]
Overview
Achillea roseo-alba is a perennial flowering plant with flat clusters of rose-white flowers and finely divided, aromatic foliage.
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 roseo-alba |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or raised beds in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- 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.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season. Cut back stems by one-third in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate. Deadheading is light; spring pruning is moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
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 in humid conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is best; rotate pots for even growth; avoid deep shade for best flowering.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure excellent drainage; amend with compost; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Hardy in USDA zones 3–9, tolerating cold winters and moderate heat.
Protect from frost in early spring; ensure good air flow in heat; avoid sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly in spring; avoid late-season feeding; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are best taken in early summer.
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: Early summer for stem cuttings; early spring or fall for division.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid, and partially shaded environment.
Medium
Well-draining medium like perlite and peat moss mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; plants can be transplanted after 8–10 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud. Remove spent flower heads with sharp shears.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Use clean tools; cut above buds; remove dead/damaged growth; sanitize tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; replant in fresh, well-draining soil with added compost.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Division is often preferred over repotting to rejuvenate the plant.
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 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 before nightfall. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
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 moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pH is within preferred range.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in extreme heat; stunted growth or bud drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Plants may become dormant in winter but are generally cold-hardy. Prolonged freezing without snow cover can damage roots.
Solution: Mulch heavily in fall to insulate roots. Avoid watering frozen soil. Protect in containers by moving to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch in intense heat, especially with poor water access.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat. Water deeply in the morning. Use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilizing; stop in late summer.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can reduce flowering. Reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAchillea roseo-alba is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is generally safe for feline consumption, though large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAchillea roseo-alba is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is generally safe for canine consumption, though large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAchillea roseo-alba is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has been used historically for medicinal purposes, particularly for its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. There are no known toxic effects associated with its consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Achillea roseo-alba deer resistant?
A: Yes, it is deer resistant.
Q: Does Achillea roseo-alba attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is Achillea roseo-alba toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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