Paprika Yarrow Achillea 'Paprika' (Galaxy Series)
ABOUT
The Achillea 'Paprika' from the Galaxy Series is a perennial plant that boasts a colorful display of warm, richly hued flowers. The blooms present a fiery blend of reds and oranges, reminiscent of the spice, paprika, after which it is named. Over time, the flowers mature to a softer, faded hue, often displaying shades of yellow and cream towards the center, creating a beautiful gradient effect. These vibrant flower heads are flat and cluster-like, creating a visually striking contrast against the plant's green, feathery foliage. The leaves are finely divided and carry a soft, fern-like appearance, adding texture and depth to the overall visual appeal of the plant. This dense mat of green creates an attractive backdrop that highlights the fiery tones of the blossoms. The Achillea 'Paprika' blooms abundantly, producing a showy sea of color under optimal conditions, which are highly attractive to pollinators such as butterflies. This plant is often valued for its extended flowering period and for adding a bold, spicy dash of color to any garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Paprika Yarrow, Galaxy Yarrow
Common names
Achillea millefolium 'Paprika'.
ToxicityTo humans
Yarrow 'Paprika' is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, there can be individuals who may be sensitive or allergic to it. If someone with a sensitivity ingests yarrow and exhibits symptoms such as stomach upset, diarrhea or skin irritation, it is recommended to seek medical attention.
To pets
Yarrow 'Paprika' is not typically known as a toxic plant to pets. Nonetheless, cats, dogs, and other domestic animals can experience gastrointestinal upset if they consume a large amount of the plant. Symptoms can include vomiting and diarrhea. If a pet shows these signs, it is advised to contact a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
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 'Paprika' is a favorite among bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it is highly resistant to drought, making it suitable for water-wise gardens.
- Easy Care: This perennial is low-maintenance, and resistant to many common garden pests and diseases.
- Long Blooming: It offers a lengthy bloom time from early to late summer, providing lasting color in the garden.
- Cut Flowers: The flowers are excellent for cutting and can be used in fresh or dried floral arrangements.
- Deer Resistant: It's not a preferred choice for deer, making it a good choice in areas where deer browsing is a problem.
- Landscape Design Versatility: Works well in borders, cottage gardens, rock gardens, and as ground cover.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Companion Planting: 'Paprika' Yarrow can be used in the garden to attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and predatory wasps, which in turn can help reduce the population of pest insects.
- Dye Production: The flowers of 'Paprika' Yarrow can be used to create a natural yellow to olive-green dye for wool and other fabrics.
- Erosion Control: Due to its robust root system, 'Paprika' Yarrow can be planted on slopes or areas prone to erosion to help stabilize the soil.
- Floral Crafts: The dried flowers of 'Paprika' Yarrow retain their color well, making them a popular choice for creating dried flower arrangements and wreaths.
- Garden Theme Designs: 'Paprika' Yarrow can be used in xeriscaping and rock gardens for its drought-resistant properties and to add a splash of color.
- Lawn Alternative: In some regions, 'Paprika' Yarrow can be used as a low-maintenance and drought-tolerant ground cover, reducing the need for traditional lawn grasses.
- Mood Enhancement: The bright and vibrant flowers of 'Paprika' Yarrow may be used in garden settings to create an uplifting and cheerful ambiance.
- Photography Prop: 'Paprika' Yarrow, with its striking flowers, can serve as an excellent subject or backdrop for botanical photography.
- Plant Guilds: 'Paprika' Yarrow can be used in permaculture plantings as part of a plant guild to support and enhance the growth of other plants in the grouping.
- Wildlife Habitat: Planting 'Paprika' Yarrow can provide habitat and food sources for butterflies, bees, and other pollinators, helping to support local ecosystems.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiYarrow is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityYarrow is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Named after the Greek hero Achilles, who used yarrow (the genus to which Achillea belongs) to treat his soldiers' wounds, this plant symbolizes healing and restoration.
- Protection: Yarrow has historically been used for its protective qualities in various cultures, symbolizing a safeguard against negative influences and physical harm.
- Courage: Its association with the warrior Achilles lends yarrow a symbolic connection to bravery, resilience, and courage in the face of adversity.
- Love: Achillea 'Paprika', with its fiery red blooms, can be associated with the passion and intensity of love, and may symbolize a romantic or enduring love.
- Divination: In folk traditions, yarrow has been used for divination and is thought to represent the unlocking of mysteries and the foresight to see the future.
- Perseverance: Yarrow is known for its hardiness and ability to survive in challenging environments, representing perseverance and the ability to withstand hardships.
WaterYarrow 'Paprika' prefers even moisture but is quite drought tolerant once established. In the first growing season, it's essential to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, watering roughly 1 inch per week. After establishment, reducing watering frequency to every two to three weeks is advisable, depending on weather conditions, ensuring that the plant receives approximately 1 gallon per square foot over this period. During hot and dry spells, increase the amount slightly, but always allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions to prevent root rot.
LightYarrow 'Paprika' thrives in full sun, meaning at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. The best spot for this plant is in an area that receives unfiltered sunlight throughout the day; however, it can tolerate partial shade, although flowering may not be as prolific. Avoid deeply shaded areas, as this can impede growth and reduce the vibrancy of its blooms.
TemperatureYarrow 'Paprika' is hardy and can withstand a broad range of temperatures, thriving in zones 3 to 9. It can endure minimum winter temperatures down to -40 degrees Fahrenheit and is quite heat tolerant, although it prefers cooler summer temperatures below 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for optimal growth of yarrow is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningTo maintain vigor and promote dense growth, yarrow 'Paprika' should be deadheaded regularly after the initial bloom to encourage a second flush of flowers. Pruning can also be done in late fall or early spring to remove any dead or damaged stems, and to shape the plant. Annual cutting back to the ground is often recommended in late fall or early spring before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilYarrow 'Paprika' prefers well-draining soil with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. A mix of garden soil, compost, and sharp sand will enhance drainage and fertility. It's essential to avoid soils that retain too much moisture to prevent root rot.
RepottingYarrow 'Paprika' generally does not need frequent repotting and can thrive for several years without being disturbed. Repotting may be considered every 3-4 years if the plant has outgrown its current space or if the soil needs rejuvenation.
Humidity & MistingYarrow 'Paprika' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require any special humidity adjustments. It is well-suited to the natural outdoor environment and can handle both dry and humid conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide full sun, well-draining soil, minimal watering.
Outdoor
Plan for full sun exposure, good drainage, and space plants 1-2 ft apart.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleYarrow 'Paprika' (Galaxy Series) begins its life cycle as a seed, where it germinates in the presence of adequate warmth, moisture, and light. After seedlings emerge and develop true leaves, they enter the vegetative growth stage where they produce foliage and establish a strong root system. As the plant matures, it enters the flowering stage, typically in late spring to summer, where it develops clusters of vibrant, red flowers with yellow centers that attract pollinating insects. After pollination, the yarrow enters the fruiting phase, where it produces small fruit that contain seeds. These seeds, once dispersed by wind or other means, can initiate a new life cycle if they land in a hospitable environment. Finally, as a perennial, yarrow 'Paprika' dies back to the ground during winter but regrows from its rootstock with the arrival of the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Achillea 'Paprika', a member of the Galaxy Series, can be propagated in the right conditions which typically align with late spring to early summer timing. The most popular method of propagation is by division, a simple and effective way to create new plants. For division, the gardener should carefully dig up the plant after the flowering has ceased and the plant is in a period of dormancy. Using a sharp knife or spade, divide the clump into smaller sections, each with an ample amount of roots and shoots. These divisions should then be replanted promptly, at the same depth they were previously growing, into well-draining soil and watered in well. Divisions allow for a fast multiplication and a true-to-type replication of the parent plant, ensuring that the vibrant colors and characteristics of the 'Paprika' are maintained.
