Fernleaf Yarrow Achillea filipendulina

Fernleaf yarrow is a flowering herbaceous perennial plant in the aster family (Asteraceae) that is native to central and southwestern Asia. It has also naturalized in parts of Europe and North America.

This perennial does well in full sun in average well-drained soils. Do not over-fertilize or water. It is heat, humidity and drought tolerant. Fernleaf yarrow will grow 3-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide and does best in an area protected from winds. Divide as needed to prevent spread and overcrowding. Deadhead to promote additional blooms. Cut the flower stem down to the leaves to promote a neat appearance.

The foliage of fernleaf yarrow is green with a fern-like texture and a strong spicy odor that forms an attractive basal clump. The yellow flat-topped clusters of flowers are up to 4 inches across. They consist of both disc and ray flowers and will appear most of the summer if deadheaded.

Use this plant in the border, mass planted, in containers, in rock gardens or as a specimen. The flowers dry nicely and last a long time.

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems:  Diseases are stem rot, powdery mildew, and rust.  Overwatering can lead to root rot. Some cultivars have shown a fair to poor amount of resistance to phytophthora (where fair is defined as less than half, and poor as more than half, of the plants studied dying of the disease). See Phytophthora Root and Crown Rot in the Landscape. 

More information on Achillea.