Yarrow Achillea millefolium 'Pomegranate' (Tutti Frutti Series)
ABOUT
Commonly known as the yarrow, 'Pomegranate' from the Tutti Frutti Series is a vivid perennial plant adored for its ornamental appeal. This variety is noted for its vibrant flowers, which showcase deep magenta to rich pomegranate-red hues, capturing attention in any garden setting. The blossoms are organized into dense, flat-topped clusters that offer a striking contrast against the feathery foliage beneath. Said foliage is delicate and finely dissected, presenting an intricate, fern-like appearance that is both soft to the touch and appealing to the eye. The leaves are generally a deep green, which further accentuates the color intensity of the flowers above. The plant, as part of its appeal, fosters a robust and bushy habit, presenting an overall lush and verdant aesthetic. Throughout its blooming period, the yarrow 'Pomegranate' can be a sought-after destination for pollinators like butterflies and bees, adding a bustling dynamic to its charming display.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Pomegranate Yarrow, Pomegranate Common Yarrow, Pomegranate Milfoil
Common names
Achillea millefolium 'Pomegranate'
ToxicityTo humans
Yarrow is generally considered non-toxic to humans when touched or ingested in small quantities. However, some individuals may be allergic to it, and it may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. If ingested in large amounts, it could potentially be harmful, but there is no well-documented case of poisoning. Possible symptoms of a negative reaction may include gastrointestinal distress such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. It's also important to consider that different people may have varying sensitivities, and herbal remedies that include yarrow should be used with caution.
To pets
Yarrow is not generally considered highly toxic to pets, but it can cause mild to moderate digestive upset if ingested. The most common symptoms in pets, such as dogs and cats, after ingesting yarrow may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, or an upset stomach. Some pets might also experience dermatitis if they are allergic to the plant. As with humans, pets with higher sensitivity may have stronger reactions, and in any case of ingestion, it is wise to monitor the pet and consult a veterinarian if symptoms persist or worsen.
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 â Achillea 'Pomegranate' is popular among bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting ecosystem health and pollination.
- Drought Tolerant â This plant is highly adaptable to dry conditions, making it suitable for water-wise gardens.
- Low Maintenance â Yarrow requires minimal care, making it ideal for novice gardeners or those with limited time.
- Long Blooming Period â With a lengthy flowering season, yarrow provides extended visual interest throughout the summer.
- Versatile Landscaping Plant â Suitable for borders, wildflower meadows, and rock gardens, Achillea 'Pomegranate' is a versatile addition to various garden styles.
- Deer Resistant â Its foliage and flowers are not preferred by deer, making it a good choice for gardens in areas with deer pressure.
- Cut Flower â Yarrow makes excellent cut flowers for bouquets with its vibrant color and sturdy stems.
- Attractive Foliage â The feathery, fern-like leaves add texture to a garden setting even when the plant is not in bloom.
- Erosion Control â It can help prevent soil erosion due to its spreading habit and robust root system.
Medical Properties- Hemostatic: Yarrow has traditionally been used to help stop bleeding.
- Anti-inflammatory: The plant may possess properties that help reduce inflammation.
- Antiseptic: It has historically been used for its potential to fight bacterial infection.
- Carminative: Yarrow can be used to relieve digestive issues such as gas.
- Sedative: It may have a mild sedative effect and could help with sleep disorders.
- Astringent: Yarrow's astringent properties may help in tightening the skin and treating wounds.
- Diaphoretic: Yarrow has been used in folk medicine to induce sweating and reduce fever.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Companion Planting: Yarrow can improve the health of nearby plants by attracting beneficial insects and repelling some pests.
- Natural Dye: The flowers and leaves of yarrow can be used to produce a range of colors for wool and other fabrics.
- Biodynamic Preparations: Yarrow is used in certain biodynamic compost preparations to enhance soil health and stimulate plant vitality.
- Planting in Problem Areas: Yarrow thrives in poor soil and can help stabilize soil and reduce erosion in difficult areas of a garden.
- Lawn Alternative: Low-growing varieties of yarrow can provide a drought-resistant and low-maintenance lawn substitute.
- Flower Arranging: The vibrant flowers of yarrow make an excellent addition to fresh or dried floral arrangements.
- Crafts: Dried yarrow flowers can be used in the creation of potpourri, wreaths, or other decorative items.
- Culinary: Yarrow leaves can be used sparingly to add a bitter or aromatic flavor to some dishes.
- Divination and Folklore: In some cultures, yarrow stalks are used for I Ching divination and the plant is associated with various myths and traditions.
- Fish Compost: Yarrow can be included in compost piles to speed up decomposition, particularly in composts containing fish wastes.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiYarrow is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityYarrow is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Achillea millefolium, commonly known as Yarrow, is named after the Greek hero Achilles who reportedly used it to heal soldiers' wounds. Thus, it carries the symbolism of healing and restoration.
- Protection: Yarrow has historically been used to ward off evil and is often associated with protection. It was commonly used in amulets and talismans for this purpose.
- Courage: Given its association with the warrior Achilles, yarrow has come to symbolize courage and bravery in battle.
- Love divination: Yarrow was traditionally used in love spells and rituals, symbolizing the quest for romantic insight and love divination.
- Perseverance: The hardy nature of yarrow, able to grow in challenging conditions, symbolizes perseverance and endurance.
WaterCommon yarrow should be watered deeply but infrequently, aiming to allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. During the growing season, it may need watering approximately once a week, depending on the weather conditions. Adjust your watering schedule for rain and hot, dry spells; less frequent watering may be required if rainfall is adequate. A general guideline is to provide about an inch of water per week, whether through rainfall or manual watering. For established plants, watering can be reduced as common yarrow is drought-tolerant.
LightYarrow prefers full sun to thrive and should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Place it in a location where it can bask in unfiltered sunlight for most of the day; this will result in the healthiest growth and vibrant blooms. Though it can tolerate partial shade, too little light may lead to leggy plants and fewer flowers.
TemperatureYarrow is a hardy perennial that can withstand a wide range of temperatures, surviving in temperatures as low as -30 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it grows best in temperate climates between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure adequate winter protection in very cold climates by providing organic mulch or other cover.
PruningPrune yarrow to encourage more vigorous growth and to maintain a tidy appearance. Deadheading spent flowers can promote a second bloom period. Cutting back the plant by about one-third after the first flowering can also rejuvenate the plant for the season. Ideally, pruning is best done immediately after the blooms fade.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCommon yarrow 'Pomegranate' thrives best in well-draining soil with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.0. A mix of loamy soil, compost, and coarse sand in equal parts will provide ideal conditions for growth.
RepottingCommon yarrow 'Pomegranate' typically does not require frequent repotting and can be done every 2-3 years, or as necessary if it outgrows its current container.
Humidity & MistingCommon yarrow 'Pomegranate' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels but prefers average to low humidity, matching its native grassland habitat.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, well-draining soil, and occasional watering for yarrow indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun with well-draining soil; drought tolerant once established.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleYarrow 'Pomegranate' (Tutti Frutti Series) begins its life cycle as a seed, germinating in warm soil in the spring with adequate moisture and light. The seedlings develop into rosettes of feathery, fern-like foliage, from which stems arise. As the plant matures, typically in late spring to early summer, it begins to form clusters of deep pink to red flowers at the top of the stems, attracting a variety of pollinators. After pollination, the flowers produce small, dry fruits containing seeds, which disperse to create new plants. Throughout the growing season, Yarrow 'Pomegranate' can be propagated by division, allowing gardeners to produce more plants from a single mature specimen. As a perennial, after flowering, the plant will go dormant in the winter, with the foliage dying back, and then it will regrow from its root system the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
The most popular method of propagation for Achillea millefolium 'Pomegranate', commonly known as Yarrow, is by division. This process is best performed in the early spring or fall when the plant is not in active growth. The plant should be carefully lifted from the ground, and the root ball should be gently broken apart into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has a decent amount of roots and shoots. These divisions can then be replanted in well-draining soil, spaced about 1 to 2 feet apart (approximately 30 to 60 centimeters), and watered thoroughly to establish. Division helps to rejuvenate older plants while also providing new plants to expand the garden or share with fellow gardeners.
