in bloom
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Achillea tomentosa
Species; herbaceous perennial
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Species; herbaceous perennial
- Height × spread: 6 to 12 in (15 to 30 cm) × 12 to 18 in (30 to 45 cm)
- Bloom window: May to June
- Color & flower form: Bright yellow, small flat heads
- Fragrance: 1 trace
- USDA hardiness: zones 3 to 7
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown, unknown, southwestern Europe to central Italy
- Awards/registration: RHS Award of Garden Merit
- Pet safety: unknown
How it differs
- Much lower and mat‑forming compared with typical border yarrows
- Excellent drought tolerance when established
- Prefers very well‑drained soil and hates humidity
- Silvery, woolly leaves add texture year‑round in mild climates
Strengths
- Reliable ground cover in dry, sunny sites
- Deer resistant
- Good heat and drought tolerance where humidity is low
- Low maintenance with occasional division
Care in one minute
Site: full sun with excellent drainage.
Soil: sandy or gravelly and lean; neutral to alkaline.
Water: light; avoid frequent irrigation once established.
Feeding: none to very light.
Grooming: shear lightly after bloom to keep dense; divide if mats thin in the center.
Winter: fully hardy in listed zones; keep crowns dry.
Watch‑outs
- Declines in hot, humid summers south of cooler regions
- Root or crown rot in poorly drained soil
- Can spread into adjacent gravel or cracks
Best uses (tags)
Provenance note
Native to southwestern Europe into central Italy; widely grown in rock garden culture.
References
- RHS – Achillea tomentosa profile
- NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox – Achillea tomentosa
