Achillea Tomentosa
Information for Growing Achillea Tomentosa
While the formal name for this plant is Achillea Tomentosa, most of us know it as the Wooly Yarrow, a type of evergreen that is typically grown in zones 3 to 10. This plant is fast growing, reaching between one-half and one foot at maturity. Used as a border plant or ground covering, the plant is beautiful and a great addition to any garden or flowerbed.
For the Achillea Tomentosa to grow, it needs lots of sunlight, as well as well-drained and low fertility soil. The leaves of this plant are a gray color, measuring two inches long. Interestingly, each leaf is divided twice and has fine hair on both sides. However, the small clusters of vibrant yellow flowers are what most people think of when talking about Wooly Yarrow. One thing to remember is that because the Achillea Tomentosa grows so quickly, it can become invasive. Therefore, you need to make sure you maintain control.
The Achillea Tomentosa originated in Western Asia and Southern Europe but today, it is enjoyed all over the world. With the unique mat formation, it is ideal for filling in holes. In fact, some people will use the Wooly Yarrow in a rock garden, which results in the beautiful yellow flowers peeking out through rock crevices. However, remember it also works well in any area as a dense ground covering.
When planting Achillea Tomentosa, you need to leave about 12 inches between plants for spread. Usually, the flowers are yellow but sometimes, the plant will produce a flower that is more of a cream or tan color. These clusters appear during late spring and early summer, mid-summer, and then again during late summer and early fall. To ensure you get a continuing bloom, you want to deadhead flowers when necessary.
One of the benefits to growing Achillea Tomentosa is that it naturally attracts birds, bees, and butterflies, which adds to the overall appeal. Additionally, with this plant handling drought conditions fairly well and being resistant to deer, you would have two less things to worry about when growing Wooly Yarrow.
As far as soil, it is important for Achillea Tomentosa to have the right pH levels. The best choices include a mildly acidic soil with pH levels from 6.1 to 6.5, neutral soil that ranges from 6.6 to 7.5, and mildly alkaline soil, which would have pH levels of 7.6 to 7.8. Obviously, this means the Achillea Tomentosa is actually considered a hardy plant and of all perennials, it is one of the least demanding. For this reason, people living in dry and hot environments have great success in growing this plant.
Along with providing beautiful color outdoors, the clusters of flowers produced by the Achillea Tomentosa also make ideal cuttings for indoor bouquets or as dried flowers for arrangements. Finally, both the flower and the leaves have a wonderful aroma so when brought indoors, they create an inviting fragrance.