Achillea - Yarrow-Terra Cotta...perfect for a natural garden design look

The Terra Cotta Yarrow image is from my garden dated July 28, 2009.

About the Achillea or Yarrow Perennial

Why not plant the Achillea or Yarrow for a natural perennial flower garden design. Did you know the the Achillea is named for Achilles, who, in Greek mythology, used to heal soldiers' wounds during the Trojan War? Some still regard the Yarrow healing qualities as a remedy for injuries and fevers.

Achillea or Yarrow is thought by many gardeners as weed like, but still, I call it one of my flower garden favorites. Last year I planted the Achillea, Yarrow Terra Cotta variety in a perennial flower bed where the sun shines all afternoon. Thankfully, the Yarrow perennial is not fussy about soil conditions and survives in most soil conditions, even my clay soil .

The Yarrow Terra Cotta blooms beautiful pastel colors of peach, lemon, cream and butter on flat clusters. Sounds good enough to eat! And planted alongside other taller perennials or annuals like the Ribbon Grass, this sun loving perennial adds height dimension to any sun perennial garden.

How to Dry Yarrow Perennial

The Yarrow perennial dries well. Here's how:

1. when the flower cluster is in full bloom cut the stem
2. gently tie the stems with raffia or any other soft material
3. hang the Yarrow upside down in a dry, cool location
4. if conditions are met, the flower clusters should be dry with 8 to 10 days
5. use the dried Yarrow in flower arrangements with dried roses and dried lavender

How To Grow The Achillea

Most Yarrow varieties grow tall (about 3 feet) so the plants will require some form of staking to prevent them from falling over. A Peony cage works well or the type of metal plant supporters that connect together and can form any shape or length required. Planting them in groupings also helps. Try planting the shorter varieties. They are great for rock gardening.

Great companion plants: Taller Cosmos, Taller Nicotiana Variety or the Cleome.

Please visit my Site Index Page for additional annuals and perennials for your next flowerbed garden design.

Achillea Features

• grows best in less fertile soil
• soil needs to drain well
• fern-like foliage
• plant in full sun
• grows 36" tall
• flower clusters are 3"-4" wide
• spreads about 18"-24" wide
• great as a dried flower. They retain their color as they dry. Hang upside down to dry
• can get floppy as they grow taller so be prepared to fence them in if you want to keep them right up
• they do give off an odd odor, which many dislike

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