Fernleaf Yarrow
achillea filipendulina
Also known as: ["Common Yarrow","Milfoil"]
Overview
A hardy perennial with feathery foliage and flat clusters of yellow flowers, known for its drought tolerance and medicinal properties.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","disease resistant","deer resistant","cold hardy","low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Achillea |
| Botanical Name: | Achillea filipendulina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden border or perennial bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining; avoid waterlogged soil.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; lightly prune throughout the season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth after flowering.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but blooms less.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; 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 best; rotate pots for even growth; avoid deep shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water at the base to avoid foliage; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure good drainage; amend with compost; avoid heavy clay.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–9; tolerates cold winters; prefers moderate summers.
Protect from frost; water less in winter; ensure good air flow in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize once a year; use balanced formula; water before feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; division is most reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Early spring or fall for division; summer for cuttings.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Perlite or sand mixed with peat; well-draining soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for cuttings.
Timeline
Roots in 3–4 weeks; establish in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use fresh cuttings; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead regularly; cut back stems to basal foliage after bloom.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; cut back after flowering to maintain shape.
Tools
Pruners, gloves, clean blades.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; deadhead regularly; cut back after bloom; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage; divide clumps if necessary.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when crowded; division may be needed.
Checklist
Check root bound status; use fresh soil; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring root zone saturation; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; allow soil to dry between waterings.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter; increase during prolonged drought.
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; stunted growth in cold; mildew in humid conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth but typically survives; may die back in severe cold without protection.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; avoid wet soil in cold; protect in zones below 3.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil fertility; apply sparingly; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing; discontinue in late summer.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicAchillea filipendulina is slightly toxic to cats if ingested. The plant's essential oils can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicAchillea filipendulina can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. The plant contains compounds that may irritate the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Non-toxicAchillea filipendulina is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its essential oils.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Achillea filipendulina deer resistant?
A: Yes, it is generally deer resistant due to its strong scent and texture.
Q: How often should I water Achillea filipendulina?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Can Achillea filipendulina be used medicinally?
A: Historically, it has been used for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, though modern use should be approached with caution.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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