Samphire-leaved Yarrow: complete guide

Overview

Samphire-leaved Yarrow (Achillea crithmifolia) is an elegant alpine Achillea with finely dissected, samphire-like foliage and soft pink flowers. This perennial is known for its clump-forming habit and is virtually indestructible. It blooms from May to August with flat-topped pink flower clusters that are fade-resistant. Ideal for rock gardens, dry sites, and formal garden designs. At [gardenworld.app](https://gardenworld.app), garden designers can use this species for water-wise designs.

Appearance and bloom cycle

This yarrow grows 20-30 cm tall and forms compact tufts of extremely finely cut, samphire-like foliage. The flower heads are flat discs in soft pink to white, some varieties spotted. The plant remains compact and slowly expands to about 40 cm wide. Flowering occurs from May to August with continuous blooming under good moisture management.

Ideal location

This species thrives best in full sun to partial shade. However, full sun exposure yields the strongest flowering. Position in well-draining locations: rock gardens, slopes, scree beds. Wind is well-tolerated. The plant grows excellently in liberated garden sections.

Soil requirements

Achillea crithmifolia is adaptable and grows on diverse soils. Well-draining, moderately fertile soil is ideal. Heavy clay soil should be amended with sand and gravel. Even on poor alpine soils this plant thrives. A pH of 6.0-7.5 is suitable.

Watering

Once established, this plant is extremely drought-tolerant. After planting, water regularly for the first 4-6 weeks. Subsequently, minimal watering required. Excess moisture can lead to rot.

Pruning

Remove spent flowers regularly to stimulate further blooming. In spring, old stems can be cut back to 10 cm above ground to maintain plant vigour. Avoid heavy pruning.

Maintenance calendar

• March-April: Prune dead stems, divide old clumps
• May-August: Blooming period, regularly remove spent flowers
• September-October: Harvest seed, prepare plant for rest
• November-February: Dormancy, minimal maintenance

Winter hardiness

Extremely hardy to USDA zone 3 (-40°C). Perfect for Dutch, German, and French mountain regions. Winter moisture must be prevented.

Companion plants

Pairs well with:

• Lavender species
• Sedum
• Sempervivum
• Gaura
• Catananche
• Saxifrages with different bloom times

Closing

Samphire-leaved Yarrow is a reliable, virtually indestructible plant for rock gardens and dry locations. Its compact form and extended blooming period make it invaluable. At [gardenworld.app](https://gardenworld.app), garden architects integrate this plant into water-wise designs. Available at garden centres across Britain.

Propagation

Division in spring. Seed in cool frame in March. Cuttings in summer.