PerennialsAchillea millefolium
Yarrow
Yarrow is a robust native perennial with finely divided, fern-like foliage and flat flower clusters in yellow, white, or pink. The plant blooms prolifically from June to September, attracting countless pollinators. Yarrow is remarkably drought-resistant and fits almost any garden style, from prairie borders to wildflower meadows.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Height
- 50–80 cm
- Spread
- 40–60 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 3–9
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- yellow, white, pink
- Wildlife value
- bees, butterflies, beneficial insects
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun in well-drained soil. Yarrow tolerates poor, dry ground and needs little fertiliser. Excessive water and overly rich soil lead to floppy stems. Once established, the plant is virtually self-sufficient.
Pruning tips
Remove spent flower heads regularly to prolong blooming. Cut the plant back to about 10 cm above ground in autumn. Divide plants every three years in spring to maintain vigour.
Good companions
PerennialsEchinacea purpurea
Purple Coneflower
Purple Coneflower is a sturdy perennial with distinctive pink-purple petals surrounding an orange-brown cone. The flowers appear from July to September and are a magnet for butterflies and bees. In autumn and winter, the seed heads attract goldfinches and other seed-eating birds.
ShrubsLavandula angustifolia
English Lavender
Lavender is a beloved herb with aromatic silver-green foliage and purple-blue flower spikes. This evergreen plant blooms profusely from June to August and is remarkably drought-tolerant, attracting butterflies and bees to the garden.
PerennialsSalvia nemorosa
Woodland Sage
Woodland Sage is a compact perennial with striking purple-blue flower spikes blooming from June to August. It attracts plenty of bees and butterflies and works well in sunny borders. Cutting back spent flower stems often triggers a second flush of blooms.