They are commonly called yarrow. Achilleas are cheery border, wildflower and rock garden plants with flattened heads in a range of bright colours from white to lemon, pink and red.  They occur in Europe and temperate areas of Asia. A few grow in North America. These plants typically have frilly, hairy, aromatic leaves. These plants show large, flat clusters of small flowers at the top of the stem. A number of species are popular garden plants.

 

Achillea is drought resistant, and will grow in almost any soil. The plants bloom in June, but will bloom again in September if the dead clusters are removed. Common Yarrow has fern-like foliage and can be used as cut flowers. The species has pink flowers but cultivars can provide white or red blooms.

 

They grow in ordinary garden soil and full sun. Cut off old flowers to prolong the flowering period. Achillea may become a weed if not controlled. Propagation: Divide in the spring. The seed germinates in 2 weeks at temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees. Light is necessary for seed germination. Germination time indoors may be as little as 5 to 7 days.

 

You should provide good sun and light, sandy soils. They almost invariably die over winter if there is any clay in the ground. Achilleas flower from June to July, and sporadically in August and September if the plants are deadheaded. Some varieties stand a better chance of surviving if they are cut back hard after flowering. Divide and rejuvenate the older plants in autumn or spring, although these new plants usually have inferior flowers to their parents.

 

The colors of Achilleas lend themselves to hot, Mediterranean color schemes.

The flattish, umbel-shaped flower-heads are complemented by the spikes of the yellow mulleins and salvias. Some ornamental grasses and sedges, such as carex, also combine well. Achillea with the blue and violet salvia hybrids, such as Salvia x sylvestris 'Blauhügel' or 'Mainacht' makes a classic combination

 

 Did you know?

 

• The genus was named for the Greek mythological character Achilles.
• Achilleas are usually deciduous perennials best suited to cottage rather than formal gardens.