Yarrow (Achillea odorata)
Care, watering, light and tips for Yarrow on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asteraceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Yarrow
Achillea odorata, also known as Scented Yarrow, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is characterized by its small yellow flowers clustered in flat corymbs and its finely divided, aromatic foliage. It's ideal for rock gardens, sunny borders, and pots, adding a wild touch and color.
Native range
Mediterranean region (southern Europe and northern Africa)
Care tips
It requires full sun for abundant flowering and well-drained soil, preferably sandy or stony, as it does not tolerate waterlogging. Watering should be moderate, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, and it is quite drought-tolerant once established. A common mistake is overwatering or planting it in heavy soils, which can lead to root rot. It does not need much fertilization.
How to save a dying Yarrow
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or browning leaves from the base, soft stems, sparse or no flowering. May indicate overwatering or poor soil.
- First aid
- Check drainage and watering. If soil is waterlogged, repot into lighter, well-draining soil. Remove severely damaged parts.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and heavy, clayey soils that retain too much moisture. Also lack of direct sun.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act promptly. It's resilient if soil and watering conditions are corrected.