Yarrow Achillea 'Forncett Ivory' (Forncett Series)
ABOUT
Achillea 'Forncett Ivory' is a perennial plant that is a part of the Forncett Series, often known by its common name Yarrow. This cultivar is known for its attractive foliage and flower heads. The leaves of 'Forncett Ivory' are feathery and finely divided, giving them a soft, somewhat fern-like appearance. They have a green color that can be described as a muted or grayish-green, which creates a nice backdrop for the flowers. The flowers are the most prominent feature of this Yarrow variant. They bloom in clusters called corymbs, creating a flat-topped appearance that resembles a plateau of blooms. Each individual flower within the cluster is small, but together they make a striking display. The flowers of 'Forncett Ivory' are creamy white in color, which adds a sense of elegance and provides a neutral palette that can easily blend with other plants in a garden. The plant’s bloom period occurs during the warmer months and the flowers are known for their longevity, both on the plant and when cut for arrangements. The contrast between the creamy white flowers and the grayish-green foliage makes Achillea 'Forncett Ivory' particularly eye-catching. Overall, it exudes a soft and airy charm that can lighten up any planting space or floral design.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Yarrow, Forncett Ivory Yarrow, Ivory Yarrow
Common names
Achillea 'Forncett Ivory'
ToxicityTo humans
Yarrow (Achillea 'Forncett Ivory') is not generally considered toxic to humans. However, consuming large amounts of yarrow can potentially lead to adverse effects due to its constituents like thujone. If ingested in excessive amounts, yarrow can cause increased urination, drowsiness, changes in heart rate, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin irritation. Individuals with allergies to other members of the Asteraceae family may also experience allergic reactions. Always handle plants with care and consult with a healthcare provider if you suspect poisoning.
To pets
Yarrow (Achillea 'Forncett Ivory') is generally considered to have low toxicity to pets. However, if pets consume large amounts of the plant, they may experience mild gastrointestinal distress, such as vomiting or diarrhea. If a pet is known to have allergies or is especially sensitive, they may also exhibit skin irritation or an allergic response. It is always advisable to prevent pets from ingesting plants and to consult with a veterinarian if you suspect your pet is affected by plant poisoning.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Ivory
Height
2 feet 6 inches (76 cm)
Spread
2 feet (61 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators - Achillea 'Forncett Ivory' is known to attract bees and butterflies, which are essential for pollination.
- Drought resistant - Once established, this plant is tolerant to dry conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Easy maintenance - The plant is low maintenance, not requiring frequent watering or fertilization after it is established.
- Long blooming period - It provides flowers for an extended period usually from early summer to fall, adding long-term interest to gardens.
- Cutting garden suitable - The flowers can be cut and used in bouquets, holding their shape and color well when cut.
- Deer resistant - Generally not preferred by deer, which helps prevent damage to the plant and garden.
- Pest and disease resistance - This variety typically has good resistance to common garden pests and diseases.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Achillea can be used as a natural fabric dye, giving wool and other natural fibers a range of yellow, green, and brown hues depending on the mordant used.
- The dried stems and flowers of the yarrow plant can be incorporated into homemade paper to add texture and visual interest.
- Yarrow is sometimes planted in vegetable gardens to attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and predatory wasps that help control pest populations.
- Used in companion planting, yarrow can enhance the growth and flavor of nearby herbs with its ability to accumulate nutrients from deep within the soil.
- Floral arrangements and wreaths can feature dried yarrow for long-lasting color and rustic appeal.
- Some practitioners of natural insect control use yarrow as a border plant to repel certain pest insects with its strong scent.
- Yarrow can be employed in permaculture design as a dynamic accumulator, mining the subsoil for minerals and bringing them to the surface.
- The plant has been used traditionally in divination and ritual practices by various cultures for its symbolic associations with healing and protection.
- As a natural lawn alternative, yarrow provides a drought-resistant, low-maintenance groundcover that can withstand some foot traffic.
- In eco-printing, yarrow leaves and flowers can be used to transfer their natural shapes and colors onto fabric or paper through steaming or boiling.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Yarrow is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityYarrow is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Achillea, commonly known as yarrow, is named after Achilles, the Greek hero, who purportedly used this plant to treat his soldiers' wounds. It symbolizes healing both in physical and emotional aspects.
- Protection: Yarrow has traditionally been used to ward off negative energies and is thought to offer protection against evil.
- Courage: Associated with the warrior Achilles, yarrow symbolizes bravery and courage in battle or personal challenges.
- Love: In some cultures, yarrow is used in love spells and is believed to attract affection and develop lasting relationships.
- Divination: Yarrow sticks are used in the I Ching, an ancient Chinese divination system, indicating its association with foresight and prophecy.
- Perseverance: As a hardy plant that can thrive in challenging conditions, yarrow embodies endurance and the ability to persevere through adversity.
WaterYarrow 'Forncett Ivory' prefers well-drained soil, so it's essential to avoid overwatering. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water each time. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water more frequently to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. In cooler, wetter months, reduce the frequency to every two weeks or less, depending on rainfall. Always check the soil moisture level before watering—yarrow is drought-tolerant and can be damaged by too much water.
LightThe Yarrow 'Forncett Ivory' thrives in full sun, which means it requires at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for this yarrow is in a location where it can enjoy uninterrupted sunlight throughout the day. If planted in too much shade, the plant may become leggy and produce fewer flowers.
TemperatureYarrow 'Forncett Ivory' is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can survive in temperatures as low as -30°F, making it capable of withstanding harsh winters. The plant's optimal growth occurs at temperatures between 65°F and 75°F, but it can endure summer highs up to 90°F without significant stress.
PruningPruning Yarrow 'Forncett Ivory' helps maintain its shape, encourage new growth, and improve air circulation. Deadheading spent flowers can also encourage a second bloom. It's best to prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Generally, a light pruning is all that's needed, but the plant can be cut back more severely if it becomes too large or leggy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilYarrow 'Forncett Ivory' thrives in well-draining soil with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. A mix of garden soil, compost, and coarse sand or perlite is ideal, improving drainage and fertility. Avoid heavy, wet soils to prevent root rot.
RepottingYarrow 'Forncett Ivory' is a hardy perennial that typically does not require frequent repotting. It's best to repot or divide the plant every 2-3 years to rejuvenate and spread the plant or manage its size.
Humidity & MistingYarrow 'Forncett Ivory' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does well in average outdoor humidity conditions. It does not require any special humidity adjustments when grown in its preferred environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun and good air circulation for indoor Yarrow 'Forncett Ivory'.
Outdoor
Place Yarrow 'Forncett Ivory' in full sun and well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleAchillea 'Forncett Ivory' begins its life cycle as a seed, sown in early spring or late fall, depending on the climate. Upon germination, the seedling emerges and develops into a young plant with a basal rosette of leaves. As the plant matures, it enters the vegetative stage, producing stems and additional leaves, while the root system establishes firmly in the soil. The plant reaches the reproductive stage in the summer months, displaying clusters of ivory-colored flowers that attract pollinators and can lead to seed production if the flowers are fertilized. After flowering, Achillea 'Forncett Ivory' may experience a period of dormancy, especially in regions with cold winters, where the above-ground portions die back and the plant survives underground with its hardy root system. The following spring, the plant resumes growth from the rootstock, thus completing the cycle and beginning anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Achillea 'Forncett Ivory' is by division. The ideal time for this is in early spring or fall when the plant is not in active growth. To propagate by division, you begin by digging up the entire plant, making sure to keep as much of the root system intact as possible. With a sharp shovel or knife, you then divide the clump into several smaller pieces, each with roots and shoots. Each section should be replanted immediately at the same depth it was growing at before, and watered well. This process allows gardeners to quickly multiply their Achillea 'Forncett Ivory' plants while ensuring that the new plants are true to the parent in form and flower color.
