Achillea or Yarrow

ACHILLEA (ak-i-lee’-ah) - Hardy herbaceous composite perennials known as Milfoil or Yarrow. They are easily recognizable by their bitterish, aromatic odor and taste, and their leaves and flowers have been used for centuries (andi still are used in Europe) in medicines.

Easily grown in any good garden soil in a sunny location, the plants bear, from June to August or later, clusters of small white and yellow flowers excellent for cutting. If seeds are planted indoors in March or early April in leafmold, sand and garden soil well mixed and finely sifted, and set outdoors early in May, the plants will probably flower the first season. Seed may also be started outdoors in May and the plants set in their permanent places in September or October to blossom the next year. They grow to a height of from 18 in. to 3 ft. and should be set about 1 ft. apart. They may also be propagated by root division. A handful of bonemeal around every plant in May will promote growth. Control rust and powdery mildew with sulphur dust. Plants showing the presence of Corticium stem rot (which see) should be destroyed.

Achillea ptarmica (Sneezewort) has white flowers and includes a popular, much grown double-flowered var., the Pearl, which makes plants 2 ft. high.

Achillea ageratum (Sweet Yarrow) bears yellow, pleasantly scented blossoms on more compact plants.

Achillea millefolium (Common Yarrow) has finely cut foliage and yellow flowers. Its var. roseum bears dense heads of rosy-pink flowers from July until late fall.

Achillea tomentosa with woolly foliage, grows 10 in. to 12 in. and bears yellow flowers in July.

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