How to Grow Woolly Yarrow
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Woolly Yarrow
Achillea tomentosa
flowerWoolly Yarrow is a compact, drought-tolerant perennial known for its soft, silvery-green, finely divided foliage and clusters of golden-yellow flowers. This low-growing plant forms dense mats and is excellent for rock gardens, borders, and xeriscape landscapes. It blooms prolifically from late spring through summer and attracts pollinators.
When should you plant Woolly Yarrow in your zone?
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Example Woolly Yarrow timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Woolly Yarrow
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Woolly Yarrow blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Woolly Yarrow dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; most vigorous in zones 4-8
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Get my Woolly Yarrow timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings with first true leaves emerge; very delicate with minimal foliage
Keep soil slightly moist but not wet; provide bright light; avoid damping off by ensuring good air circulation
Vegetative
4-8 weeks before first bloomLow rosette formation with increasing silvery-green, finely divided foliage; plant remains compact and mat-like
Reduce watering; encourage strong root system; minimal fertilizer needed; transplant outdoors after last frost
Peak Flowering
6-8 weeks (late spring to midsummer)Profuse golden-yellow flat-topped flower clusters (corymbs) cover the plant; blooms stand 6-12 inches above foliage
Deadhead regularly to extend bloom season; minimal watering unless drought stress shows; avoid excessive fertilizer
Decline & Dormancy
Late summer through winterFlowers fade and dry; foliage may lighten; plant slows growth in heat or prepares for winter dormancy
Cut back spent flower stems; allow some dried flowers to remain for winter interest and seed dispersal; reduce water
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering; spray with sulfur or neem oil if needed; resistant in well-drained, sunny locations
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil for severe infestations; encourage natural predators
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Increase humidity slightly; spray with water; use miticide or neem oil if populations are high
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Improve drainage; avoid overwatering; remove affected plants; ensure sandy, well-draining soil
Uses
Herbal Tea & Digestive Support
CulinaryWoolly Yarrow flowers and leaves can be brewed into a mild herbal tea with a slightly bitter, aromatic flavor. Traditionally used to support digestion and as a general wellness tea. [source]
Wound Healing & Traditional Remedy
MedicinalYarrow has a long history in folk medicine for supporting skin health and wound care. The plant contains compounds traditionally believed to promote healing. [source]
Dried Flower Arrangements & Crafts
CraftThe flat flower clusters dry beautifully and retain their color and form, making them ideal for dried arrangements, wreaths, and floral crafts. Long vase life in fresh arrangements as well. [source]
Pollinator & Beneficial Insect Support
WildlifeWoolly Yarrow is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The flowers provide nectar and pollen from late spring through summer. [source]
Ornamental Xeriscape & Rock Gardens
HouseholdIts compact size, silvery foliage, and drought tolerance make it ideal for water-efficient landscapes, alpine troughs, rock gardens, and front borders with minimal maintenance. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers at peak bloom in the morning when fully open for arrangements; they dry excellently for dried arrangements and crafts. Deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season to encourage continuous blooming. Allow some flowers to go to seed for self-sowing and winter interest.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Woolly Yarrow is named after Achilles from Greek mythology, who allegedly used yarrow to heal wounded soldiers in the Trojan War.
- 🌱 The plant's finely divided, woolly foliage acts as a natural adaptation to drought and intense sun, helping it retain moisture and reflect excess heat.
- 🌱 Achillea tomentosa can spread via self-seeding and underground rhizomes, potentially becoming invasive in ideal conditions—deadhead spent flowers if spread is a concern.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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