Moon Dust Yarrow Achillea Moon Dust = 'Novaachdus'
![yarrow [Moon Dust]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fplants-admin.emdemapps.com%2Fimages%2Fplants%2F%2Fimages%2F604b62286e057.png&w=3840&q=75)
ABOUT
Achillea Moon Dust, also known as Moon Dust Yarrow, is a charming perennial plant known for its attractive foliage and flowers. The leaves of the Moon Dust Yarrow are finely dissected with a soft, feathery appearance, exuding a silvery to gray-green hue that provides a delightful contrast to the vibrant blossoms. During its blooming period, the plant is adorned with clusters of creamy white flowers that sit atop sturdy stems, creating a frothy appearance. These flower heads are tightly packed with numerous tiny, daisy-like blooms that attract butterflies and other pollinators to the garden. The distinct look of the Moon Dust Yarrow, combining its soft foliar texture with the cheerful white flower clusters, makes it a popular choice for creating a visual impact in ornamental borders and rock gardens.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Moon Dust Yarrow, Dwarf Yarrow
Common names
Achillea 'Novaachdus'.
ToxicityTo humans
Yarrow (Achillea Moon Dust) is not considered highly toxic to humans. However, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or skin irritation when handling the plant. If ingested in large quantities, it could potentially lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or other digestive issues. Although uncommon, sensitive individuals might experience more severe reactions, so it is advisable to avoid consuming this plant.
To pets
Yarrow (Achillea Moon Dust) is also generally considered to have low toxicity to pets. If ingested, pets may experience mild vomiting or diarrhea. While not typically life-threatening, if your pet consumes a large amount of yarrow, it is best to consult with a veterinarian. Some animals might also be allergic or particularly sensitive to the plant, which could result in more pronounced symptoms if they come into contact with or ingest it.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1 feet 6 inches (45.72 cm
Spread
1 feet 6 inches (45.72 cm
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Low Maintenance - Achillea Moon Dust requires minimal upkeep, making it ideal for gardeners looking for easy-care plants.
- Drought Tolerance - Once established, it has a high tolerance for drought conditions, which can conserve water and reduce watering needs.
- Attracts Pollinators - It attracts beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems and pollination.
- Long Blooming Period - Moon Dust yarrow often has a lengthy flowering season, providing consistent garden color and interest.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistant - It is not a preferred food source for deer and rabbits, which can help maintain its appearance and vigor.
- Landscape Versatility - With its compact size, it can fit into various garden designs including rock gardens, borders, and containers.
- Soil Adaptability - It can thrive in a wide range of soils, including those that are less fertile or rocky.
- Heat Tolerance - This plant can withstand high temperatures, making it suitable for hot and sunny gardens.
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 Moon Dust can be used as a natural dye for fabrics and yarns, imparting a soft yellow or green hue depending on the mordant used.
- The dried flowers of the Yarrow can serve as a component in potpourri, contributing to a blend of pleasant aromas for homes.
- Fresh or dried yarrow plants are sometimes incorporated into floral arrangements for their muted tones and interesting textures.
- Yarrow can provide a habitat for beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which help control garden pests.
- The plant's strong scent can deter certain garden pests, acting as a companion plant in vegetable gardens or around roses.
- Achillea Moon Dust can be used in crafting, such as making eco-friendly confetti for events by shredding the colorful flowers.
- Its foliage and flowers are sometimes used in creating naturalistic, wildlife-friendly garden designs, which aim to mimic native landscapes.
- The dried stems of yarrow can be woven or plaited into wreaths or other decorative items for rustic home decor.
- Yarrow may be used in rain gardens due to its tolerance for both drought and brief periods of wet soil, helping manage stormwater runoff.
- The flowers can be used to concoct natural insect repellent sprays as they contain compounds that some insects find distasteful.
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: The genus Achillea is named after the Greek hero Achilles, who was said to have used yarrow (the common name for Achillea species) to treat wounds on the battlefield. Hence, it is often associated with healing and restorative properties.
- Protection: Yarrow has traditionally been used in various cultures as a symbol of protection, often believed to ward off negative energies and provide a shield against harm.
- Courage: Reflecting its historical connection with the warrior Achilles, yarrow symbolizes bravery and courage in overcoming challenges.
- Love: In some traditions, yarrow is thought to be a love charm and is used in spells and rituals to attract love or to maintain a strong relationship between partners.
- Divination: Yarrow sticks are used in I Ching divination, which associates the plant with the ability to reveal hidden knowledge and insight into the future.
WaterYarrow 'Moon Dust' prefers evenly moist soil, especially during its first growing season, to establish a deep and extensive root system. Water the plant thoroughly, allowing the water to penetrate deeply into the soil, approximately once a week. Ensure you are applying about an inch of water during each session. As the plant becomes established and matures, it becomes more drought-tolerant and may require less frequent watering. During hot, dry spells, you might increase watering to every few days to maintain moisture. Avoid overwatering, as yarrow does not like to sit in wet soil, which can lead to root rot.
LightYarrow 'Moon Dust' thrives best in full sun conditions, which means it requires at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot for this plant would be in an area where it can receive ample sunlight without being shaded by larger plants or structures. Ensure that the plant is not placed in an area with partial shade, as insufficient light may reduce its vigor and blooming potential.
TemperatureYarrow 'Moon Dust' is a hardy plant that can withstand a wide range of temperatures. It can survive in temperatures as low as the teens in Fahrenheit and can tolerate high temperatures well into the 90s. The ideal temperature range for optimal growth is between 65°F and 75°F. As long as the plant is kept within this temperature bracket and protected from extreme cold, it should flourish.
PruningPruning yarrow 'Moon Dust' is important to maintain its shape and encourage a second bloom in the fall. After the first flush of flowers has faded, cut the plant back by about half to encourage new growth and additional blooms. This can be done typically in mid to late summer. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, can also prolong the blooming period and prevent the plant from self-seeding excessively.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMoonshine Yarrow 'Novaachdus' prefers well-draining soil, which can be achieved by mixing garden soil with compost and a little sand or perlite. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0, which is ideal for these plants.
RepottingMoonshine Yarrow 'Novaachdus' generally does not require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2-3 years, or when the plant outgrows its current container.
Humidity & MistingMoonshine Yarrow 'Novaachdus' is adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of humidity levels, though it prefers normal to dry air conditions typical of outdoor environments rather than high humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, avoid overwatering, ensure good air flow.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, space 18 inches apart.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleAchillea Moon Dust, a perennial herb also known as Yarrow, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in the spring when soil temperature and moisture levels are suitable. The seedling stage follows, where the plant develops its initial root system and foliage. As it matures through the vegetative stage, Yarrow develops a robust clump of fern-like leaves and establishes a stronger root system. Following vegetative growth, the reproductive stage begins, typically in early to mid-summer, when the plant produces clusters of small, dusty yellow flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, seeds develop and are eventually dispersed by wind or fauna, completing the cycle. In the absence of severe winters or unfavorable conditions, Yarrow will enter a period of dormancy in late fall or winter, then resume growth in the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
The most popular method of propagating Achillea Moon Dust, also referred to as Yarrow, is by division. This method is ideally performed in the spring or early fall when the plant is not in active bloom. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the Yarrow plant ensuring you keep a generous amount of roots intact. Using a sharp spade or knife, divide the root mass into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a portion of the root system. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were originally growing at, spacing them about 12 to 24 inches apart (30 to 61 centimeters) to allow enough space for growth. Water the new divisions well to help establish them. This method is quick and usually highly successful, as it maintains many of the parent plant's characteristics and leads to quicker establishment compared to seed propagation.
