Achillea

Achillea

RHS Genus Guide

Achillea are tough, drought-tolerant perennials – common yarrow (Achillea millefolium) often appears in lawns and remains green in the hottest of summers. A few are low, mat-forming alpines, but most are strongly upright. Bringing long-lasting colour and interest to borders or prairie-style planting, they often retain their structure into winter.

Botanical name: Achillea

Common name: Yarrow

Appearance

A stalwart of late-summer colour, Achillea have ferny, aromatic foliage and, in summer, stems typically 60-90 cm tall carry broad, flat flowerheads in shades of yellow, white, pink, red or apricot. The flowers are made up of tiny individual florets, giving a textured, almost mosaic-like effect.

Preferences

They love full sun and thrive in well-drained soil, even in poor or dry conditions. Once established, they are drought-resistant and heat-tolerant.

Dislikes

They dislike heavy, waterlogged soils or too much shade. Rich soils may encourage leggy plants, which then need staking.

Did you know?

Greek hero Achilles is said to have used the plant to treat soldiers’ wounds, and Achillea has a long history of medicinal use. Today, it is a favourite in wildlife gardens, attracting bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects.

RHS Growing Guide