Yarrow Achillea millefolium 'Apricot Delight' (Tutti Frutti Series)
ABOUT
The plant known as Apricot Delight, which belongs to the Tutti Frutti Series, is characterized by its attractive feather-like foliage and vibrant flower clusters. The foliage presents a soft, green canvas of finely divided, almost fern-like leaves that set the stage for the showy blooms. The flowers emerge atop sturdy stems as dense, flat-topped clusters that resemble the typical look of wildflowers. Apricot Delight's true charm lies in its delightful flower color, which can be described as a gradation of pastel shades ranging from soft apricot to warm pink. As they mature, these flowers may exhibit a range of hues due to the subtle color variations within each cluster. This creates a stunning visual effect of depth and texture in the garden. The blooms are also known to attract pollinators like butterflies and bees, adding a dynamic element to its display. The overall appearance of Apricot Delight is one of natural beauty, with its feathery foliage and colorful flowers creating a whimsical and inviting presence in a garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Common Yarrow, Yarrow, Milfoil, Soldier's Woundwort, Thousand-leaf, Nosebleed Plant, Devil's Nettle, Old Man's Pepper, Sanguinary, Thousand-seal.
Common names
Achillea millefolium 'Apricot Delight'.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name of Achillea millefolium 'Apricot Delight' is Yarrow. Yarrow is not generally considered toxic to humans. Most parts of the plant, including the leaves and flowers, have been used historically for various medicinal purposes. However, it should be noted that some individuals may experience allergic reactions or skin irritation when handling the plant. Ingesting large amounts of Yarrow could potentially lead to increased perspiration or urine output due to the plant's diuretic properties, but it's not typically regarded as poisonous.
To pets
Yarrow, the common name for Achillea millefolium 'Apricot Delight', is considered to have mild to moderate toxicity to pets such as dogs and cats. If a pet ingests Yarrow, it might display symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, or lethargy. Although Yarrow is not usually life-threatening, ingestion could lead to discomfort and digestive upset for pets, and it's advised to keep an eye on the animal and consult a veterinarian if any symptoms are observed.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Apricot
Height
2 feet [60 cm]
Spread
2 feet [60 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Achillea millefolium 'Apricot Delight', commonly known as Yarrow, is highly attractive to butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects, promoting biodiversity in the garden.
- Drought Tolerant: Yarrow is particularly resistant to dry conditions once established, making it suitable for water-conserving landscapes.
- Easy to Grow: Yarrow is known for its hardiness and ease of cultivation, requiring minimal care once it's established in an appropriate setting.
- Long Blooming Period: Yarrow has a long flowering season, typically producing blooms from early summer to early fall, offering extended visual interest.
- Deer Resistant: The plant is generally resistant to grazing by deer, making it a good choice for gardens in areas where deer are a common nuisance.
- Versatility in the Garden: Yarrow can be used in perennial borders, as ground cover, in rock gardens, and in wildflower meadows, demonstrating its versatile use in various landscape designs.
- Cut Flowers: The flowers of Yarrow hold up well when cut, making them excellent for fresh bouquets and arrangements.
- Dried Flowers: Yarrow also retains its color and structure when dried, making it a popular choice for dried floral crafts and decorations.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) contains compounds that may help to reduce inflammation in the body.
- Antiseptic: The plant has been used for its antiseptic properties to clean wounds and promote healing.
- Astringent: Known for tightening and toning tissues, making it useful for treating minor wounds and stopping bleeding.
- Carminative: Can relieve gastrointestinal discomfort by expelling gas and easing digestion.
- Diaphoretic: It may promote sweating, which can be helpful in reducing fevers and aiding in detoxification.
- Expectorant: Helps in loosening phlegm and eases its expulsion from the respiratory tract, which may be beneficial in treating colds and coughs.
- Menstrual regulator: Has been traditionally used to help regulate menstrual flow and relieve menstrual cramps.
- Analgesic: May alleviate minor pains and aches, such as headaches or toothaches.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Composting: The spent foliage of yarrow can be added to compost piles to accelerate the decomposition process due to its high nitrogen content.
- Plant Dye: Yarrow can be used in natural dyeing processes to impart a range of colors to fabrics, dependent on the mordant used.
- Dream Pillows: Dried yarrow flowers are sometimes used in dream pillows to encourage restful sleep and possibly vivid dreams.
- Biodynamic Preparations: Yarrow is utilized in certain biodynamic farming practices to make soil treatments and field sprays.
- Garden Borders: Yarrow can serve as a resilient border plant that resists pests and diseases, effectively protecting more sensitive plants in the garden.
- Companion Planting: Planting yarrow nearby can enhance the essential oil content of certain herbs and thereby improve their potency.
- Erosion Control: Yarrow's extensive root system makes it an excellent plant for stabilizing soil and controlling erosion on slopes or in areas prone to soil degradation.
- Natural Fertilizer: Yarrow, when chopped and mulched, can be used directly on the garden as a natural fertilizer, enriching the soil with valuable nutrients.
- Flower Arranging: Yarrow's long-lasting flowers can be used to add texture and color to floral arrangements and dried bouquets.
- Pet Advocacy: Incorporating yarrow into areas where pets like to play or rest can help create a more insect-resistant space for them.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Yarrow is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Yarrow is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Achillea millefolium, commonly known as yarrow, is historically known for its healing properties. It's named after the Greek hero Achilles, who purportedly used yarrow to treat his soldiers' wounds.
- Protection: Yarrow has been thought to ward off evil and is traditionally used in amulets and talismans to offer protection.
- Courage: Its association with the warrior Achilles also lends it symbolism linked to courage and bravery.
- Love and Attraction: Yarrow is sometimes used in love spells and is believed to attract friends and lovers.
- Divination: In folk traditions, yarrow stalks are used for I Ching divination, symbolizing the power of prediction and insight.
- Endurance: The hardiness and ability of yarrow to thrive in challenging conditions symbolizes endurance and perseverance.
WaterFor the Yarrow 'Apricot Delight', it is best to water deeply yet infrequently to encourage deep rooting, ensuring the plant gets enough moisture without making the soil waterlogged. Generally, you should aim to water this plant once a week, providing about 1 inch of water which equates to approximately 0.6 gallons per square foot. During hot, dry spells, watering may need to increase to twice a week, whereas in cooler, wetter conditions, reduce the frequency to prevent soggy soil. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering; if it's dry to the touch, it's time to water.
LightYarrow 'Apricot Delight' thrives in full sun and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth and blooming. This plant performs best when placed in a location where it is exposed to unfiltered sunlight throughout the day. Avoid placing it in shaded areas, as insufficient light can lead to poor flowering and weak, leggy growth.
TemperatureYarrow 'Apricot Delight' prefers temperatures ranging between 65°F and 75°F but is remarkably hardy and can tolerate a wide range from freezing to very hot weather. The plant is cold-hardy and can survive in temperatures as low as -30°F, making it suitable for many climates. However, to maintain vigorous growth and flowering, avoid extreme heat above 90°F for prolonged periods.
PruningPruning Yarrow 'Apricot Delight' encourages denser growth and more abundant flowering. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming throughout the season. In early spring or after the first killing frost, cut back the entire plant to about 2-4 inches from the ground to maintain shape and health. Pruning can be done once a year, or more frequently if the plant looks untidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilYarrow 'Apricot Delight' thrives in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of garden soil, compost, and coarse sand can provide the ideal conditions, ensuring good fertility without excessive moisture retention. Regular mulching will help maintain soil health.
RepottingYarrow 'Apricot Delight' is mostly grown outdoors and does not typically require repotting. In a garden setting, division every few years is recommended to maintain vigor, rather than repotting.
Humidity & MistingYarrow 'Apricot Delight' is adaptable and tolerates a wide range of humidity conditions. It thrives in average outdoor humidity and does not require specific humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, well-draining soil mix, and minimal watering.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, in well-draining soil; water sparingly.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleAchillea millefolium 'Apricot Delight', commonly known as yarrow, begins its life as a seed, which, when sown in soil with proper exposure to light and water, will germinate and sprout. The seedling emerges and establishes a rosette of feathery foliage characteristic of the species. As the plant matures, it develops a strong root system and erect stems, entering its vegetative stage. During the flowering stage, usually in late spring to summer, the plant produces clusters of small, apricot-colored flowers that attract various pollinators. After pollination, seeds develop and are eventually dispersed, allowing for the cycle to begin anew. Outside of its main growing season, yarrow typically goes dormant in winter, especially in colder climates, but its perennial nature means it will regrow from the rootstock the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Achillea millefolium 'Apricot Delight', commonly known as Yarrow, is through division. Division should be done in the early spring or fall. Carefully dig up the existing plants ensuring a good amount of the root system is intact with each clump. Using a sharp spade or knife, divide the plant into smaller sections, making sure that each section has at least one shoot and a portion of the root system. Replant the divisions immediately at the same soil level as before, spacing them about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the new divisions well to help establish them. This method quickly increases the number of Yarrow plants and encourages healthy, vigorous growth.
