Fernleaf yarrow Achillea filipendulina 'Cloth of Gold'
ABOUT
The Achillea filipendulina 'Cloth of Gold', commonly known as the fern-leaf yarrow, is a striking perennial plant with very distinctive features. This variety boasts feathery, aromatic foliage that is deep green in color. The leaves are finely divided, resembling fern leaves, which gives it a delicate texture in the garden. The plant produces a profusion of bright, flat-topped flower clusters that can be described as golden-yellow in color, creating a vibrant display that is visually appealing. These flower clusters are composed of numerous small flowers tightly packed together, resembling a cloth of gold when in full bloom. The plant has a sturdy, upright growth habit, which allows the flower heads to stand proudly above the foliage. It is known to attract a variety of pollinators, including butterflies and bees, adding to its ornamental value. Further adding to its charm is its resilience and ability to thrive in a range of soil types, though it prefers well-drained conditions.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Fern-leaf Yarrow, Cloth of Gold, Noble Yarrow, Parker's Variety
Common names
Achillea eupatorium, Achillea filipendulina var. eupatorium, Achillea filipendulina subsp. eupatorium.
ToxicityTo humans
Yarrow is generally not considered toxic to humans when touched or ingested in small quantities. However, it contains certain compounds that may cause an allergic skin reaction in sensitive individuals and, if ingested in large quantities, it might lead to digestive discomfort, such as diarrhea or vomiting. People with allergies to other members of the Asteraceae family should exercise caution.
To pets
Yarrow is also not highly toxic to pets, but it can cause mild digestive upset if ingested in significant amounts. Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling. As with humans, pets with sensitivities or allergies may have a stronger reaction, so it is advisable to prevent pets from consuming yarrow.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
3-4 feet (0.91-1.22 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.61-0.91 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Caucasus
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive to Pollinators: Yarrow 'Cloth of Gold' provides nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, encouraging biodiversity in the garden.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, yarrow is highly tolerant of drought, making it suitable for xeriscaping or gardens in arid climates.
- Low Maintenance: This plant requires minimal care once it is established, making it ideal for gardeners seeking low-effort landscaping options.
- Long Blooming Period: Yarrow 'Cloth of Gold' produces flowers from early to late summer, offering extended visual interest.
- Deer Resistant: The plant is typically not favored by deer, which can help prevent damage to the garden by foraging wildlife.
- Soil Adaptability: It can grow in a wide range of soil types, from clay to sandy soils, as long as the location provides good drainage.
- Erosion Control: The dense matting habit of yarrow can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes or in problematic areas.
- Cut Flowers: The vibrant yellow flowers of 'Cloth of Gold' are excellent for fresh cut arrangements and have a long vase life.
- Dried Flowers: They also retain their color when dried, making them popular for dried floral crafts and decorations.
- Garden Design Versatility: Yarrow's striking foliage and bright flowers fit into a variety of garden designs, including perennial borders, wildflower meadows, and cottage gardens.
- Easily Divisible: The plant can be readily divided to create new plants and expand garden coverage or to share with other gardeners.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Achillea filipendulina 'Cloth of Gold' may possess compounds that help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Antiseptic: Historically, this plant has been used for its antiseptic properties to clean wounds and prevent infection.
- Antispasmodic: It has been used to alleviate spasms of the muscles.
- Hemostatic: The plant has been known to help in stopping bleeding, both internally and externally.
- Digestive aid: It has been reported to promote digestion and relieve gastrointestinal discomfort.
- Menstrual cycle regulation: There have been uses related to the regulation of menstrual cycles and easing related discomfort.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Achillea filipendulina 'Cloth of Gold' can be used in dye production, due to the presence of natural pigments in its flowers which can yield a range of yellow hues.
- The plant is suitable for creating a low-maintenance and drought-tolerant garden design, requiring minimal watering once established.
- Yarrow can be incorporated into xeriscaping, which is a landscaping method that reduces the need for irrigation.
- It is useful for creating a habitat for beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and hoverflies, which serve as natural pest control in gardens.
- The plant's fibrous stems and foliage can be used in crafting, for example, as a component in homemade paper making.
- Achillea filipendulina 'Cloth of Gold' is used in companion planting to enhance the growth of certain vegetables by repelling harmful pests.
- The dried flowers can serve as a natural filler in sachets, adding fragrance to drawers and wardrobes while deterring moths.
- Its decorative flower heads can be used in the creation of natural, rustic floral arrangements or potpourri.
- Yarrow has a historical use in divination rituals; it was used for casting I Ching, an ancient Chinese divination method.
- The dried plant material can serve as a compost accelerator due to its high level of essential nutrients.
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 filipendulina, commonly known as yarrow, has been associated with healing due to its historical use in herbal medicine for treating wounds and reducing bleeding.
- Protection: Yarrow is often considered a protective plant, believed to ward off negative energy and provide a shield against evil spirits.
- Courage: The name 'Achillea' references the Greek hero Achilles who, according to legend, used yarrow on the battlefield. This connection lends the plant symbolic meanings of bravery and courage.
- Love divination: Yarrow has been used in folklore for love divination, with a belief that it can predict a person's romantic future or help to find one's true love.
- Perseverance: Yarrow's ability to grow in challenging conditions and its resilient nature symbolizes perseverance and endurance.
- Spiritual connection: Due to its purported psychic properties, yarrow is also associated with enhancing spiritual communication and intuition.
WaterFor Yarrow 'Cloth of Gold', watering should be done deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions. Typically, this plant requires about one inch of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation. Yarrow is drought-tolerant once established, so overwatering can lead to issues like root rot. During hot, dry spells, increase watering slightly but always check the soil moisture first. Watering with approximately half a gallon per plant once a week should be adequate for maintaining healthy growth, adjusting as necessary for rainfall and temperature conditions.
LightYarrow 'Cloth of Gold' thrives best in full sun, meaning at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot for this plant is in an area that receives unfiltered sunlight for most of the day. While it can tolerate some light shade, too much shade can lead to leggy growth and fewer flowers. Full sun exposure ensures robust growth and abundant flowering.
TemperatureYarrow 'Cloth of Gold' prefers a temperature range between 65°F and 75°F, but can survive in temperatures as low as -30°F and as high as 90°F. The hardiness of this plant makes it suitable for a variety of climates, but it performs best when the temperature is within its preferred range. Prolonged exposure to temperatures outside this range might impede growth or cause damage to the plant.
PruningPrune Yarrow 'Cloth of Gold' to encourage vigorous growth and to maintain its appearance. After the first flowering in early summer, cut the plant back by about one-third to encourage a second bloom. Pruning can be done again in the fall, cutting the plant down to the ground after the foliage dies back. Deadheading, or the removal of spent flowers, throughout the blooming season will also promote further blooms and prevent self-seeding if not desired.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFernleaf Yarrow prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. A mix of garden soil with some sand or grit for improved drainage would be ideal. Compost can be added to provide nutrients. Avoid soils that are too moist or rich to prevent leggy growth and promote strong, sturdy plants.
RepottingFernleaf Yarrow is a hardy perennial that typically doesn't require frequent repotting. It can remain in the same spot for several years. However, if you notice a decline in vigor or overcrowding, you can divide and repot in the spring every 3 to 5 years.
Humidity & MistingFernleaf Yarrow is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does well in the average outdoor conditions. It does not require any special humidity considerations when grown outside in its preferred environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light and good air circulation.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, drought-tolerant once established.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Achillea filipendulina 'Cloth of Gold', commonly known as Fern-leaf Yarrow, begins with seed germination, typically in early spring when the soil begins to warm. Seedlings develop into rosettes of fern-like foliage, and as the plant matures, it forms a clump with tall, erect stems reaching up to 4 feet high. During late spring to summer, it blooms with flat-topped clusters of golden-yellow flowers that are attractive to a variety of pollinators. After flowering, the plant sets seeds, which can be dispersed by wind or self-sow in conducive conditions. In fall, the above-ground portions of the plant die back with the onset of cooler temperatures, while the root system remains alive over winter. With the return of favorable weather, Fern-leaf Yarrow emerges from dormancy and begins a new growth cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Achillea filipendulina 'Cloth of Gold', commonly known as fern-leaf yarrow, is by division. This is ideally done in early spring or autumn when the plant is not in active growth. To propagate by division, first dig up an established fern-leaf yarrow, ensuring you lift a generous clump with plenty of roots. Gently separate the plant into smaller sections, making sure each has a portion of the root system attached. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing at previously, spacing them about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the new plants thoroughly after planting to help establish them. Dividing every few years helps to rejuvenate the plants and prevent overcrowding.
