Walther Funcke Yarrow Achillea 'Walther Funcke'
ABOUT
Achillea 'Walther Funcke' is a striking perennial herb known for its unique and vibrant appearance. The plant forms a clump of fern-like foliage, which is aromatic when crushed. The leaves are typically green with a hint of gray and have a delicate, feathery appearance. The most captivating feature of Walther Funcke is its flower heads. The blooms are a warm, rusty orange to terra-cotta hue with bright yellow edges, creating a beautiful two-tone effect. The flowers are small and densely packed into flat-topped clusters, known as umbels, which rise above the foliage on stout stems. These flower clusters provide a rich tapestry of color that stands out in garden borders. The contrast between the unique, colorful blossoms and the soft, fine-textured foliage makes this plant a standout in any garden setting. The plant blooms throughout the summer and often into the fall, offering a prolonged display of stunning color. It's also known to attract butterflies and other beneficial pollinators, adding even more life to its presence in the garden.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Yarrow, Walther Funcke Yarrow
Common names
Achillea 'Walther Funcke'.
ToxicityTo humans
Yarrow is generally not considered highly toxic to humans. However, it can cause contact dermatitis in some individuals who are allergic to it. If ingested, it might lead to gastrointestinal upset such as diarrhea or vomiting. It is important to note that while it is not highly toxic, it is not recommended for consumption, especially not in large quantities or by individuals who are pregnant, as it can have other health impacts such as uterine stimulation.
To pets
Yarrow is also not highly toxic to pets, such as cats and dogs. However, it can still cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested, including vomiting and diarrhea. As with humans, it is not recommended for pets to consume yarrow, and care should be taken to monitor pets and keep the plant out of their reach if they are known to chew on garden plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Orange
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Achillea 'Walther Funcke', also known as yarrow, attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects which are valuable for pollinating garden plants and crops.
- Drought-resistant: Yarrow is highly tolerant to dry conditions, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens and xeriscaping.
- Easy to grow: With minimal maintenance requirements, yarrow is an easy plant to cultivate, ideal for beginner gardeners or those looking for low-maintenance landscapes.
- Soil adaptability: Yarrow can thrive in a wide range of soil types, including poor soils, which makes it versatile for different garden settings.
- Long blooming period: The plant has a long flowering season, providing color and visual interest in the garden from early summer to fall.
- Deer resistant: Yarrow is not a preferred food source for deer, making it a good choice for gardens in areas where deer browsing is a problem.
- Erosion control: The plant's extensive root system helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion, especially on slopes or in areas with loose soil.
- Culinary use: Some parts of the yarrow can be used in cooking for their flavor, though it is more commonly used for its ornamental value.
- Landscape design versatility: With its fern-like foliage and flat-topped flower clusters, yarrow can be used in a variety of garden designs, including borders, rock gardens, and meadows.
- Companion planting: Yarrow can be beneficial when planted near other garden plants, as it is believed to enhance the growth and flavor of certain vegetables and herbs.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Achillea 'Walther Funcke', similar to other yarrow species, may contain compounds that help reduce inflammation.
- Hemostatic: It is traditionally used to help stop bleeding.
- Analgesic: The plant may have pain-relieving properties.
- Antispasmodic: May help in relieving spasms.
- Carminative: Can aid in reducing gas in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Astringent: Can be used topically for its skin-toning effects.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Achillea "Walther Funcke", commonly known as yarrow, can be used as a natural dye, providing a range of colors from yellow to green depending on the mordant used.
- The dried stems of yarrow are often incorporated into decorative wreaths and arrangements for their enduring form and color.
- Yarrow leaves can be crushed and sprinkled onto compost to accelerate the decomposition process due to their high nitrogen content.
- The plant's ability to repel certain insects makes it a useful companion plant in vegetable gardens to protect other plants.
- Farmers sometimes plant yarrow as a forage crop for livestock, as it is rich in nutrients and supports animal health when eaten in moderation.
- Yarrow is used in some eco-friendly garden practices as a natural lawn alternative that requires less watering and maintenance than traditional grass.
- The plant can be used in rituals or ceremonies within certain cultural practices for its symbolic association with healing and protection.
- Yarrow, being tolerant of foot traffic, can be integrated into outdoor landscaping as a resilient ground cover for pathways and between stepping stones.
- Its fibrous stems have been historically used in crafting, such as creating sturdy hand-made paper or as a natural binding material.
- As an aromatic herb, yarrow can be included in sachets or potpourris to impart its distinctive scent within home interiors.
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 Achillea part of the name comes from Achilles, a hero of the Greek mythology, who was said to have used yarrow to treat soldiers' wounds. This association ties the plant to the idea of healing and recovery.
- Courage: Given its connection to the warrior Achilles, yarrow is also associated with courage in battle and the resilience to face challenges.
- Love and Attraction: Some believe that yarrow has the power to attract love and create a romantic ambiance, making it a symbol of love and attraction.
- Protection: Yarrow is traditionally used in many cultures for protection against negative energies and is considered a guard against evil.
WaterThe Yarrow (Achillea 'Walther Funcke') prefers dry to average moisture levels, so watering should be done conservatively. It is best to water this plant deeply once a week, providing about one inch of water which can be estimated to approximately 0.6 gallons per square yard of soil. During periods of prolonged drought or extreme heat, increase the frequency to twice a week. Ensure that the soil has good drainage as Yarrow does not like to be waterlogged. Always water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to disease.
LightYarrow thrives in full sunlight conditions, which means it requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for Yarrow would be in an area where it can enjoy unfiltered sunlight for the majority of the day. Partial shade is also tolerable, but the plant's flowering might be less prolific.
TemperatureYarrow is quite hardy and can endure a wide range of temperatures. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around -30 degrees Fahrenheit, while maximum temperatures are generally limited by the plant's location and climate. The optimal growth temperature for Yarrow ranges from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, but it can easily handle higher temperatures provided it has enough water.
PruningPruning Yarrow involves cutting back the spent flowers to encourage a second bloom in the same season. It is also advisable to cut back the foliage to the ground in late fall to promote healthy growth in the spring. This perennial should be pruned once the flowering has decreased, usually in late summer or early fall.
CleaningAs needed
SoilYarrow 'Walther Funcke' prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. A mix comprised of loam, organic compost, and sharp sand or perlite would provide the ideal environment for its roots. Regular garden soil amended with compost and grit to improve drainage can also be effective.
RepottingYarrow ‘Walther Funcke’ is a hardy perennial that typically does not require frequent repotting. Rather than repotting, dividing the plant every few years in the spring or fall to maintain its vigor is recommended.
Humidity & MistingYarrow ‘Walther Funcke’ tolerates average to low humidity conditions and does not require high humidity levels to thrive. This makes it suitable for a range of outdoor garden settings.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide full sun, well-draining soil, and infrequent water.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, deadhead to encourage bloom.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleThe common name of Achillea 'Walther Funcke' is Yarrow. This perennial plant begins its life cycle with seed germination, usually occurring in early spring when temperatures become suitable. Once the seeds have sprouted, the seedlings develop a rosette of leaves at ground level as they establish their root system. As the plant matures, it sends up stalks with feathery, aromatic leaves, and in early to mid-summer, the Yarrow produces flat clusters of small flowers, typically in shades of orange and red. After flowering, seeds are produced and dispersed, either by wind or wildlife, which completes the reproductive cycle. Over the winter, Yarrow may die back to the ground, especially in colder climates, but will regrow from its robust root system in the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Yarrow 'Walther Funcke' is through division. Dividing yarrow plants is best done in the early spring or fall when the plant is not in active growth. First, dig up the parent plant, making sure to take a generous portion of the root system. Gently separate the plant into smaller sections, each with a part of the root structure and at least one developing shoot. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing at before, spacing them about 1-2 feet (about 30-60 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the new plants thoroughly after planting to help establish them. Division helps to rejuvenate older plants and is a quick way to produce new plants that will flower in the forthcoming season.
