Woolly yarrow (Achillea tomentosa)
Also known as: Woolly Yarrow
Prickly pear cactus is a perennial that thrives in hot, sunny, and dry conditions. It features flat, paddle-like segments and vibrant yellow flowers. To propagate, divide the plant in spring and fall.
In This Article
Attributes of Woolly yarrow
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Herb
Plant Height
15 cm to 20 cm
Spread
20 cm to 30 cm
Leaf Color
Green Gray Silver
Flower Size
2.5 cm
Flower Color
Yellow
Images of Woolly yarrow
Quickly Identify Woolly yarrow
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Low stature groundcover with woolly, silver-green leaves for water retention.
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Clusters of sunny yellow disk and ray flowers with mild, pleasant scent.
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2-inch long, grayish leaves with compound, hairy texture emitting spicy fragrance.
Scientific Classification of Woolly yarrow
Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Dicotyledons
Order
Asterales
Family
Daisy
Genus
Yarrows
Species
Woolly yarrow
Planting and Growing of Woolly yarrow
Care Difficulty
Easy
Watering Schedule
Every 2 days
Sunlight Requirements
Full sun
Sunshine Duration
6-10 hours
Ideal Temperature
65-75℉
Soil Type
Potting Mix, Peat Mix
Soil pH
6.5-7.5
Fertilizer Type
Balanced
Pruning Season
Spring, Summer
Pruning Area
Branches, Leaves
Pruning Frequency
Once a year
Repotting Season
Spring
Pot Type
Plastic, Ceramic
How to Water Woolly yarrow?
Achillea tomentosa, commonly known as woolly yarrow, is a drought-tolerant plant that prefers well-drained soil. Water it deeply but infrequently. Always ensure the top inch of soil is dry before watering again, to mimic its natural environment and prevent root rot.
What are the symptoms of an underwatered Woolly yarrow?
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What should I do if my Woolly yarrow is not getting enough water?
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What are the symptoms of an overwatered Woolly yarrow?
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How to save an overwatered Woolly yarrow?
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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Woolly yarrow?
Achillea tomentosa grows optimally with six to eight hours of sunlight, ideally in full sun conditions. Sufficient sunlight enhances flowering and maintains the plant's health, ensuring strong growth and vibrant blooms.
More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→
What is the ideal sunlight condition?
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What solutions help achieve the ideal light?
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What are the benefits of ideal lighting?
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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Woolly yarrow?
Achillea tomentosa thrives best in temperatures ranging from 65°F to 75°F. This temperature bracket ensures optimal growth, facilitating healthy leaf development and vibrant blossom production. Maintaining these conditions promotes the overall well-being of the plant.
What Soil is Best for Woolly yarrow?
Achillea tomentosa thrives in well-drained soil, preventing root rot, especially in wet climates. The porous texture helps water to flow freely, ensuring roots receive enough oxygen and nutrients, while avoiding waterlogging. Rich soil with adequate organic matter supports healthy growth and vibrant blooms. Organic matter adds essential nutrients and improves soil structure, benefiting Achillea tomentosa by providing consistent nourishment. While Achillea tomentosa is not very demanding in terms of fertility, a moderately fertile soil enhances foliage and flower production. Over-fertilization should be avoided, as it may lead to weaker stems and increased susceptibility to pests.
How to Fertilize Woolly yarrow?
For Achillea tomentosa, use a balanced 10-10-10 liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply about 1-2 tablespoons per gallon of water, ensuring the soil is moist before application to prevent root burn.
How to Prune Woolly yarrow?
In early spring, start by removing any dead or damaged stems. This not only tidies up the plant but also stimulates new, healthy growth. Achillea tomentosa tends to get leggy over time, so cut back one third of the older growth to encourage bushier and more compact growth. During the blooming season, especially in autumn, deadheading spent flowers will encourage further blooming and maintain an attractive appearance.
More About Pruning Techniques→
How to Propagate Woolly yarrow plant?
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Start by sowing Achillea tomentosa seeds on the surface of well-draining potting mix. Lightly press the seeds into the soil but do not cover them, as they require light to germinate.
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Select a healthy stem from the parent plant. Cut just below a node to ensure a viable cutting of about 4-6 inches in length. Remove the lower leaves and dip the end in rooting hormone before planting in potting mix.
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Divide the root ball of an existing plant by carefully slicing through it with a sharp knife. Each division should have a portion of the root system and a healthy shoot to ensure successful establishment.
How to Repot Woolly yarrow plant?
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Achillea tomentosa shows signs it needs repotting when its roots start poking out of the drainage holes, or growth seems stunted, indicating the plant is pot-bound. Spring or summer is ideal when the plant is actively growing, allowing it to recover quickly in its new environment.
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Select a pot that's one size larger than the existing one, ensuring it has good drainage holes. Achillea tomentosa thrives in well-draining environments, so a pot with adequate drainage prevents root rot and provides enough space for roots to spread and absorb nutrients efficiently.
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Opt for a well-draining sandy soil mix that mimics its natural habitat. This type of soil ensures proper aeration and prevents waterlogging, which can be detrimental to the plant. A sandy mix helps roots breathe and reduces the risk of fungal diseases that thrive in overly moist conditions.
