Achillea millefolium

Common Yarrow, Milfoil
Asteraceae (Compositae)
Perennials

ACHILLEA

Among the most carefree and generously blooming perennials for summer and early fall, several being equally useful in the garden and as cut flowers (taller kinds may be cut and dried for winter bouquets). Leaves are gray or green, bitter-aromatic, usually finely divided (some with toothed edges). Flower heads are usually in flattish clusters. Yarrows need only routine care: some watering (though they endure drought once established), cutting back after bloom, dividing when clumps get crowded.

Achillea millefolium

Native to Europe and western Asia. Erect plant with narrow green or grayish-green leaves and flat-topped white flower clusters on 3-ft. stems. Spreads by underground runners. Many garden varieties have been selected for their flower color, which includes shades of cream to yellow, pink, and red.

'Oertel’s Rose'

Strong-growing variety, about 2 ft. tall and wide, with bright pink flowers that soften to pastel pink with age.

'Paprika'

Grows 3 ft. tall, with green leaves and light to dark reddish pink flowers.

'Red Velvet'

Grows about 2 1/2 ft. tall and 1 1/2 ft. wide, with deep, rose-red flowers that are slow to fade.

'Terracotta'

Strong-growing plant to 3 ft. tall and wide, with gray-green leaves and large flowers of rich yellow, fading through shades of orange.