Yarrow Achillea 'Petra'
ABOUT
Achillea 'Petra' is a hardy perennial known for its beautifully textured foliage and clusters of small, vibrant flowers. The leaves of this plant present a fern-like appearance, being finely dissected with a soft, almost feathery feel, and are often a greenish-gray color. These frilly leaves are quite attractive and make a pleasant backdrop for the colorful blossoms. The flowers of Achillea 'Petra' are its most striking feature, typically forming dense, flat-topped clusters known as corymbs. Each cluster is composed of numerous tiny, daisy-like flowers. The blooms exhibit warm shades which can include tones ranging from buttery yellow to a deeper gold, and they often have a subtle, fading gradient which adds depth and complexity to their appearance. The overall impression of Achillea 'Petra' is one of a robust, yet delicate plant, with a harmonious blend of soft foliage and bright, cheerful flowers. This plant is appreciated for its durability, long blooming season, and the rich contrast between its intricate leaves and the eye-catching color display of its blossoms. Achillea 'Petra' provides a splash of color in gardens and is a favorite among gardeners for creating a warm, inviting atmosphere in outdoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Yarrow, Common Yarrow, Milfoil, Soldier's Woundwort, Nosebleed Plant, Devil's Nettle, Sanguinary, Old Man's Pepper, Devil's Plaything, Thousand-leaf, Stanchweed, Arrowroot, Bad Man's Plaything.
Common names
Achillea 'Petra'.
ToxicityTo humans
Yarrow is considered to be non-toxic to humans. Typically, yarrow is not associated with poisoning when touched or ingested in small amounts, and it is even used in some traditional medicines. However, large quantities may cause gastrointestinal upset, including diarrhea or vomiting. It's always wise to consult with a medical professional if large amounts are ingested or if any adverse reactions occur.
To pets
Yarrow is generally regarded as being of low toxicity to pets. However, if a pet consumes a large quantity of yarrow, it could potentially experience mild gastrointestinal upset, which might include symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea. Care should be taken to prevent pets from ingesting large amounts of yarrow, and a veterinarian should be consulted if there are any concerns about poisoning or if any symptoms arise after ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Achillea 'Petra', commonly known as Yarrow, is known for its ability to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden.
- Drought-tolerant: Once established, Yarrow is highly drought-resistant, making it a good choice for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
- Low maintenance: Yarrow is easy to care for, requiring minimal watering and fertilization once established.
- Deer-resistant: The plant is not a favorite among deer, making it suitable for gardens in areas with high deer populations.
- Long blooming period: Yarrow blooms for an extended period of time, often from early summer to fall, providing long-lasting color.
- Versatile in the landscape: Yarrow can be used in perennial borders, rock gardens, and as a ground cover, due its spreading habit and attractive foliage.
- Cut and dried flowers: The flowers of Yarrow make excellent fresh cut arrangements and can also be dried for long-lasting decorations.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Achillea 'Petra', commonly known as yarrow, can be used as a compost activator due to its high nitrogen content, which helps speed up the decomposition process.
- Yarrow is often included in permaculture gardens for its ability to attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and predatory wasps, which help control garden pests.
- The plant can be used in dyeing processes; yarrow contains natural compounds that can yield yellow, green, or brown hues depending on the mordant used.
- Yarrow can be planted as a ground cover to prevent soil erosion because of its spreading habit and strong, extensive root system.
- The flowers and leaves of yarrow may be used in potpourri due to their aromatic properties, adding a subtle, pleasant fragrance.
- It's often included in wildlife gardens because yarrow's flowers provide nectar for butterflies and other pollinators.
- Some gardeners use yarrow as living mulch, wherein the plant helps retain soil moisture and suppresses weed growth when planted densely.
- Yarrow can be used in floral arrangements both fresh and dried, retaining its shape and color well when dried.
- The plant is sometimes utilized for companion planting, as it is believed to enhance the growth and flavor of certain vegetables when grown nearby.
- Yarrow can be woven into wreaths and other decorations due to the durability of its stems and foliage, often used in traditional and rustic crafts.
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 and Restoration: Named after the mythical Greek hero Achilles, who purportedly used it to heal wounds, Achillea 'Petra', commonly known as Yarrow, often symbolizes healing and the restoration of health.
- Courage and Protection: Due to its mythological associations with Achilles and warriors, Yarrow can represent courage and protection in challenging situations.
- Psychic Powers and Divination: Historically, Yarrow has been used for divination and is believed to heighten psychic abilities, symbolizing the human connection with the spiritual world.
- Love and Attraction: Yarrow flowers sometimes symbolize love and are thought to attract love when used in various rituals.
- Endurance and Strength: The plant’s hardy nature and ability to thrive in difficult conditions make it a symbol of endurance and inner strength.
WaterYarrow, commonly known as Achillea 'Petra', should be watered deeply yet infrequently to encourage a robust root system. Typically, watering once a week during active growth periods with approximately one inch of water is sufficient. During hot, dry spells, you may need to water twice a week. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, as yarrow prefers drier conditions. Over-watering can lead to issues with root rot, so it is essential to ensure good drainage. Adjust watering during the fall and winter when the plant is dormant, reducing the frequency to when the soil is dry to the touch several inches down.
LightYarrow thrives best in full sunlight, which means it should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun each day. The ideal spot for Achillea 'Petra' would be in an open area with abundant sunlight and away from taller plants that could create shade. Partial shade is tolerable but may result in a less vigorous plant with fewer blooms.
TemperatureYarrow is a hardy plant that can withstand a wide temperature range. Achillea 'Petra' can survive in temperatures as low as -30°F and can tolerate heat well above 85°F. However, the ideal temperature for promoting healthy growth is between 65°F and 75°F. This plant is quite adaptable and can thrive in most temperate climates without issue.
PruningPruning yarrow involves cutting back spent flowers to encourage a second bloom and to maintain the plant's shape. Achillea 'Petra' should be pruned in late summer or early fall after the blooming period ends. Additionally, deadheading, or the removal of spent blooms during the growing season, can promote continued flowering. Pruning can also help prevent the plant from self-seeding and spreading excessively.
CleaningAs needed
SoilYarrow 'Petra' thrives in well-draining soil mixed with compost and a bit of sand to improve drainage. The ideal pH for yarrow is between 6.0 and 7.0, typically preferring slightly acidic to neutral soil conditions.
RepottingYarrow 'Petra' does not require frequent repotting and can be done every 2-3 years, or as needed, when the plant outgrows its current container or the soil becomes depleted.
Humidity & MistingYarrow 'Petra' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity conditions and does best in average garden humidity levels without the need for special humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, ensure good air flow, water moderately.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, tolerant of drought.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleAchillea 'Petra', commonly known as Yarrow, begins its life cycle as a seed which germinates in spring when soil temperatures are warm and moisture is adequate. The seedlings grow into rosettes of feathery foliage at the soil level. As the plants mature, they develop upright stems and begin to produce clusters of flowers typically from early summer to late summer, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After flowering, Yarrow sets seeds which can be dispersed by wind or fall close to the parent plant to potentially grow the following season. During autumn, the above-ground parts of Yarrow die back as the plant goes dormant, but the roots remain alive underground. With the return of favorable conditions in spring, the plant regrows from the existing root system, completing its perennial life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
The most popular method to propagate Achillea 'Petra', commonly known as Yarrow, is by division. This is ideally done in the early spring or fall when the plant is not actively blooming. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the yarrow plant, ensuring a large amount of the root system is intact. Gently separate the plant into smaller sections, making sure each section has a portion of the root system attached. Replant the divisions immediately into well-drained soil, spacing them about 1 to 2 feet apart to allow room for growth. Water the new plants thoroughly after planting to help establish them. This method of propagation not only helps to maintain the vigor of your yarrow plants but also allows you to increase the number of plants in your garden efficiently.
