ACHILLEA
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Achillea
Here's a plant for struggling gardeners. Achillea
is really hardy and multiplies rapidly to fill empty garden spaces.
A. millefolium is a commonly grown species that offers a range
of colours from reds, deep to pastel pinks, white and yellow. Fern-like
leaves.
Alternate Names: Yarrow, Milfoil
Origin: Temperate regions of northern hemisphere.
Flowering Season: Summer to early autumn.
Plant Size: 60cm H x 30cm W.
Planting Density: 30 - 40cm apart.
Multiplication speed: Rapid. May need containing.
Preferred Aspect: Full sun (minimum 5 hrs).
Plant Uses: For long lasting colour. As a rapid space filler. Back of borders in mixed perennial gardens.
Likes: Just about anything once established.
Dislikes: Tropical climates.
Watering: Achillea should be watered normally, however they cope well in hot, dry conditions.
Fertilising: Achillea is extremely hardy and have no special fertiliser requirements. If desired, prepare the soil with well rotted animal manure, blood and bone, or a complete fertiliser before planting.
Lifting and storage: If desired, the plants can be lifted and divided during the winter months. Replant immediately or store temporarily in moist peat moss.
Pests: None.
Tips: In winter cut back foliage to ground level. In winter, dig out the fresh, outer rooted shoots and replant them separately. These fresh young shoots will produce more vigorous plants and better blooms. The flowers are excellent for cutting and can be dried.
