Sneezewort Achillea ptarmica The Pearl Group seed-raised (d)
ABOUT
The Pearl Group Sneezeweed is a flowering perennial that boasts an attractive appearance, characterized by its lush, dark green foliage and the profusion of dazzling white flowers that resemble small pearls. The leaves of this plant are narrow, with a somewhat feathery arrangement along the stems, presenting a texture that is dense and healthy. The real spectacle, however, lies in the flowers which emerge in abundance. Each individual flower is comprised of tightly clustered, double or semi-double blooms that give off a frothy and delicate charm. The blossoms can be likened to tiny white pompoms dotting the plant. Their pure white color provides a striking contrast against the dark green leaves, making the plant a standout in any garden setting. The overall effect of these pearl-like flowers densely packed in clusters is both elegant and eye-catching, exuding a softness and charm that attract both the eyes and the local pollinators.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Sneezewort, Pearl Yarrow, European Pellitory, Wild Pimpernel, Goose Tongue, Fair-maid-of-France, Bastard Pellitory, White Tansy.
Common names
Achillea ptarmica var. the Pearl, Achillea ptarmica 'The Pearl'.
ToxicityTo humans
Sneezewort or Sneezeweed, more commonly known as Pearl Group Achillea, is generally not considered toxic to humans. Ingesting parts of the plant is usually not harmful, but as with many plants, it can potentially cause mild stomach upset in some individuals if consumed in significant quantities. There are no widely recognized severe toxic effects or symptoms of poisoning from this plant for humans.
To pets
To pets, Pearl Group Achillea, also known as Sneezewort or Sneezeweed, does not exhibit significant toxicity. It is not commonly listed as a poisonous plant for pets. However, if ingested in large amounts, it could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea in some animals due to the presence of natural plant compounds. Symptoms are usually not severe, but if any unusual signs are noted, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Achillea ptarmica 'The Pearl Group' is known to attract bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for pollination in the garden.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, this plant is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for dry or xeriscape gardens.
- Easy Propagation: It can be easily propagated by seed, which allows gardeners to produce large numbers of plants economically.
- Low Maintenance: The plant requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for low-maintenance landscapes.
- Rapid Growth: Achillea ptarmica 'The Pearl Group' grows quickly, which can be advantageous for gardeners looking to establish plantings in a short period of time.
- Soil Adaptability: It can thrive in a range of soil types, from clay to sandy soils, as long as they are well-drained.
- Long Blooming: The plant has a long blooming season, providing continuous color and interest throughout the summer months.
- Cut Flowers: Flowers of 'The Pearl Group' are suitable for cutting and using in floral arrangements.
- Deer Resistance: It is relatively resistant to deer, making it a good choice for gardens in areas with deer pressure.
- Border Planting: Its growth habit and height make it suitable for use in borders.
- Cottage Gardens: The plant's traditional appeal suits cottage garden designs.
- Beds and Borders: Its form and flowers are attractive in mixed beds and borders.
- Container Gardening: It is suitable for container gardening where space is limited.
- Wildlife Friendly: The plant can provide habitat for beneficial insects and other wildlife in the garden.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Achillea ptarmica may contain compounds that help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Antiseptic: Traditionally, it has been used for its antiseptic properties to clean wounds and minor cuts.
- Astringent: The plant may be used as an astringent, which can help in tightening the skin and stopping bleeding.
- Febrifuge: Known to induce sweating and help lower fever.
- Diaphoretic: Achillea ptarmica might promote sweating, aiding in detoxification and fever reduction.
- Emmenagogue: Historically, it has been used to stimulate menstrual flow and alleviate menstrual disorders.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Achillea ptarmica The Pearl Group, commonly known as Sneezewort, can be used as a natural insect repellent when the leaves are crushed and applied to the skin, due to its strong scent.
- It has been traditionally used in dried flower arrangements, as Sneezewort retains its shape and color well when dried.
- Gardeners may use Sneezewort to create a 'living mulch' as its dense growth can inhibit weed development and its roots can help retain soil moisture.
- Sneezewort can be planted to prevent soil erosion on slopes due to its spreading habit and robust root system.
- When planted in pastureland, Sneezewort is known to increase the biodiversity of the area, attracting various pollinators and beneficial insects.
- The plant is sometimes used in creative natural dyeing processes, as different parts can yield various green and yellow hues on fabrics.
- Because of its abundance of white flowers, Sneezewort may serve as a temporary fill-in for lawns or open spaces awaiting perennial planting.
- Sneezewort flowers can be used as a natural confetti in celebrations and weddings, being both biodegradable and more environmentally friendly than synthetic alternatives.
- The plant's tall and sturdy stems make it ideal for adding structure to small garden ponds or water features.
- As a companion plant, Sneezewort may help to repel certain pests and assist in the growth of vegetables like tomatoes by providing a helpful microclimate.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiAchillea ptarmica, commonly known as Sneezewort, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilitySneezewort is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Achillea ptarmica, commonly known as "Pearl," inherits its name from the Greek hero Achilles who used yarrow (Achillea) to treat his soldiers' wounds, symbolizing its historical use in herbal medicine for its healing properties.
- Protection: In folklore, Pearl was often carried as a charm to ward off negative energies and provide protection from harm, a reflection of its strong, resilient nature.
- Courage and War: Its association with Achilles also brings connotations of courage and war, as it played a role on the battlegrounds of mythology.
- Love and Attraction: In Victorian times, the yarrow, or Pearl, was used in love divinations and was believed to attract love when worn or carried.
- Endurance: The hardy nature of Pearl makes it a symbol of endurance and the ability to withstand various challenges.
WaterSneezewort requires regular watering, but it is crucial not to over-water as it prefers well-drained soil. During the active growing season in spring and summer, water enough to keep the soil moist, which could mean watering with roughly 1-2 gallons per week depending on the local weather conditions. Always test the soil moisture before watering—sneezewort should not sit in soggy soil. During the fall and winter, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy and the soil naturally retains more moisture. It's important to allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
LightSneezewort thrives in full sun conditions, as it requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to flourish. Place the plant in a location where it is exposed to unfiltered sunlight for most of the day. Partial shade is tolerable, especially in very hot climates, but may result in less floriferous plants. Avoid deep shade areas, as this can lead to poor growth and fewer flowers.
TemperatureSneezewort is cold-hardy and can withstand temperatures down to around -20 degrees Fahrenheit but grows best in temperate regions. The ideal temperature range for optimal growth is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate high temperatures as well, but prolonged exposure to temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit may stress the plant and affect its health and flowering.
PruningPruning sneezewort is important to maintain its shape, encourage more blooms, and prevent it from becoming leggy. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming. In late autumn or early spring, prune back the entire plant to about a third of its size to prepare it for new growth. Pruning at this time also reduces the chance of disease and helps to rejuvenate the plant for the coming season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSneezewort 'The Pearl Group' thrives in well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of garden soil, compost, and sharp sand or perlite is ideal to improve drainage and fertility.
RepottingSneezewort 'The Pearl Group' does not typically require frequent repotting. It can be divided and repotted every 2-3 years in the spring to maintain vigor.
Humidity & MistingSneezewort 'The Pearl Group' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does well in average garden conditions without specific humidity requirements.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, well-draining soil, and infrequent watering.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, and water regularly.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Sneezewort 'The Pearl' (Achillea ptarmica The Pearl Group seed-raised (d)) starts its life cycle when its seeds germinate, typically in late spring or early summer after stratification. Seedlings grow into rosettes and develop a root system during their first season. As the plant matures, it forms clumps of dark green, lance-shaped leaves and erect stems. During the second season, from early to late summer, it blooms with clusters of small, double, pearl-like white flowers that attract pollinators. After flowering, the plant sets seeds which are distributed by wind or wildlife, ensuring propagation for future generations. Throughout the winter, the plant may die back, especially in colder climates, but it is a perennial and will re-emerge from its rootstock the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Sneezewort 'The Pearl' is often propagated through seed sowing. The best time to sow seeds is in spring, after the last frost has passed, or indoors a few weeks before the last expected frost. Sprinkle the seeds lightly onto well-drained soil and cover them with a light dusting of soil or vermiculite. Keep the soil moist until germination, which usually occurs within 2 to 3 weeks. Once seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves and have reached a height of about 2-3 inches (5-7.6 cm), they can be transplanted into individual pots or into a garden setting. Seed-raised plants are less uniform than those from divisions but allow for a larger quantity of plants to be produced at once.
